Have you ever taken a second to listen to a complete stranger’s story about their life and what they have overcame to get where they are today? This may seem very strange and a usual to most but what I have learned is the more I set my intentions on connecting with complete strangers the more enlightened I am and filled with pure gratitude for my life even the obstacles I have faced. Meaningful conversations require great listening skills and with listening to understand and learn the information you receive could change your life for the better. I learned some of the most valuable lessons just from starting a conversation with a stranger, I learned that there are people that just needs someone to listen to their story. I have learned and confirmed that you cannot judge a book by the cover, and most importantly everyone has a story and by listening we allow our selves to be present to receive a blessing. why is it a blessing?  because hearing  other people’s stories helps me feel appreciative and grateful for my life and what I have been through. It allows me to get present to the fact that it could have been worse and that the things we may see as a setback or a problem there is someone out there that would be glad to have just that.

The shift of the mind is very beneficial to life because when you change your thoughts you change your attitude and your actions will align.  Growing up truthfully speaking I will admit that I was a dedicated complainer growing up, every opportunity that presented itself I had something to complain about.  It was the practice of connecting with people outside of my comfort zone and learning their truths is when I began to practice gratitude over negative attitude. That was the best transition I could have ever took on I learned to invest a lot of time being present and reflective on my life and what truly matters. Accepting what I don’t gave and making the most out of what I do have.  The more we listen the more we learn the more we can apply change to who we are being, I believe one of the greatest secrets to living a happy and successful life is having an attitude of gratitude always. Being grateful for everything and everyone no matter how big or small the reward or the obstacle is, every little step count they add height to the ladder of success. I believe that questions are meant to be asked, lessons are meant to be learned asking the right question at the right time could change your life.

Receiving love and support is not limited to only the people you have known your entire life, be open to new connections, new questions, and new lessons. Changing your perspective having an open mind and having love and compassion for even strangers is not so abnormal as we were taught. Believe that everything and everyone that you encounter has a purpose and a reason it is up to us choose to take advantage of every opportunity or be distracted by our thoughts and create logic reasoning to remain quiet. One of the most unrewarding things we can do in life Is be too prideful or lacking confidence to make the necessary connections in our life. For growth to take place there is a level of discomfort we must experience in order to produce new results, expand your mind, and open your heart to every opportunity and experience.  My advice to everyone reading today is the next time you are thinking about complaining about your life, ask a stranger; what is your story? Make connections that will make you think twice and choose gratitude over complaint. Life can be as amazing as you make, or it could be as limited as your thoughts. Changing our perspective and having an open mind unlocks the door to experiencing new and exciting opportunities choose to evolve into your purpose by choosing gratitude and love.