Every month, Oprah closes her “O” magazine by sharing her “What I Know for Sure” column. In it, she adds her voice to the overall subject covered in that edition by sharing the lessons she has learned along the way. Last night, I tucked myself into my big, comfy chair, under my favorite blanket, and flipped through the pages of the latest edition of “O.” As I closed the magazine, I felt the warmth of an amazing day settle into my heart and fill the corners of my memory, and I thought about “What I Know for Sure.” Here are a few things that came to mind:

1. I am so very blessed to be where I am at this point in my life. Are there things that I wish I could have/would have/should have done differently? I used to think so, but not anymore. Well, rarely. Each step has been a part of the journey that led me here. Quiet reflection and a call with a dear friend of 25 years reminded me of that yesterday.

2. Everyone, not just the people I connect with easily, carries within a light and a story waiting to being seen and shared. As I wrote yesterday’s post, I thought about my journey, my children, my mom, and then, I thought of all of you; you who read my words and those who haven’t–yet. (And, I sure hope someday they do! :)) I thought of the diverse personalities I come into contact with through this blogging forum, my business, my volunteer work, my family and my community. Every contact has made me a richer person by giving me the opportunity to view the world through different lenses. Too often, I forget the gift found here–like when my teens are sassy, another driver cuts me off,  or a clerk is rude. Yesterday, writing in the wee dark hours of the morning, I was reminded to see the light in everyone.

3. Each of us, regardless of our journey, our station in life, our “faults” or our doubts, is beloved. Yesterday, my day began with a trip to the dentist. Though they were unable to complete the scheduled work, I knew my time was well spent; no mistakes, as I like to say. During the short drive home, a familiar song came on the radio. Though I had heard Jason Gray’s “Remind Me Who I Am” before, I had never really listened to it. While still pondering the post I had “published” only moments before walking out the door, the message of the song moved from my mouth to my heart, and to my mouth again. (Yes, I am one of those car-singers–loud and off-key.)  I pulled to the side of the road, turned up the volume, and let the words sink into my very being. “…Tell me, once again, who I am to you…who I am to you.” As I pulled back into traffic, I felt it…that which I often forget…I am beloved.

Like an itch that needed to be scratched, I had to hear Gray’s song once more and found the “official video” online. (Thanks, YouTube!) Unexpectedly, the video added even greater depth to an already powerful song that reminds we are each beloved–by God (or whomever our spirit connects to), our families and our friends. (My interpretation of Gray’s song.)

Last night, snuggled in my chair, I felt wrapped in a blanket of love and kindness. I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of birthday greetings posted on my Facebook page and through the emails, comments on this page, and phone calls I received. Additionally, I was lovingly  pampered by my daughters and my husband. Heading up to bed, I played the day’s “theme song” in my mind. As I drifted off to sleep, I truly felt beloved because yesterday, I was reminded of who I am and who I want to be.

There ya have it–3 things I know for sure–or try really hard to remember. Truthfully, I’m pretty confident I know more than 3 — at least that’s what I tell my kids– but I think I’ll just focus on mastering these first. Odds are pretty good that not everyday will be as fabulous as yesterday. Therefore, it’s probably a good idea to post all 3 in plain sight (read: above the coffee maker.) Because, what I know for sure is… I don’t want to forget ’em on the “rough days.”

Please, join the conversation and share what you know for sure  in the comments below.

And, if you have a moment, be inspired to remember who you are…