Today marks the first step in a new chapter of my journey: simplifying my diet, focusing on health, and letting go of what no longer serves me. No more processed protein drinks, no extra sugars. Just black coffee, whole foods, and intention.

I’ve decided it’s time to stop hesitating and start making things happen. Six months from now, I know I’ll look back and be grateful for today. I’m reducing processed foods, sugars, dairy, and meats, choosing instead to eat what I already have in my pantry, fridge, and freezer. It’s a small change that also saves money—a win-win. I’ve even set up a grocery list in Google Sheets, and maybe, just maybe, I’ll share it as part of Living Real Aloha. Sharing these tools could help others take control of their health, too.

At Peace

On a personal note, I reached out to the boys today. I sent a simple "Go Ducks!" message. No response—and that’s okay. A small part of me wanted acknowledgment, but I reminded myself to “Let Them.” Let them be who they are, and let me be at peace with it.

Michael Singer’s podcast was my companion today. Episode 39, Reconnecting with Your Natural State of Joy and Love, resonated deeply. He reminded me that our natural state is one of peace, love, and compassion. Life flows beautifully when we live in harmony. It’s a state I want to embody more fully, starting now.

Letting Go

I’m learning to let go of defensiveness, judgment, and ego. Letting go doesn’t mean avoiding reality—it means approaching it with compassion and balance. What’s the best I can do in any given moment? How can I act in harmony with the world around me? These are the questions I want to carry forward.

Letting go isn’t instantaneous. It’s a practice—a daily effort to release the garbage we hold onto, to stop shoving it down, and instead, to clear it out. The God within me respects the God within others. Compassion is my compass.

Moving Forward

I don’t need to judge or hold onto what isn’t mine. Love and openness are enough. Once I clear my own mind and heart, the world feels different—not because the world has changed, but because I have.

This is where my journey begins: on a foundation of peace, love, harmony, and self-compassion. Gentle January is about starting small, starting kind, and starting with intention.

"You are a very great being. Nothing you ever did will ever take that away. You just have to be willing to let go and not store the garbage inside of you and you'll find your own greatness." Michael Singer