As I prepare to honor 72 years of life on this earth, I continue a tradition of giving myself a gift. Not a gift of a thing, an event, or a place—but a sacred gift.

On the first day of my 73rd year, I will step into a magical twenty-four hours, opening a wide portal to new beginnings and fresh possibilities.

This year’s gift is the way I choose to see myself: as a deeply empathetic and intuitive soul.

I will take quiet moments to reflect on these blessings—my compassion, creativity, depth, intuition, and the unwavering desire to make the world better.

I will allow myself to feel their worth truly.

Standing at the gateway to my 73rd year, I see this as a sacred moment to renew my self-care journey.

I’ve been asking myself:

How can I offer care to others without depleting my own energy?

What changes can I make to honor and protect my sensitivities?

What daily practices will restore and replenish me?

Gaining clarity around these questions sets a hopeful and empowering foundation for the changes ahead.

I’m deeply drawn to the Zen teaching of beginner’s mind—approaching life with fresh eyes, free from the weight of old stories or preconceptions.

From this space of openness, I choose to honor my sensitive soul and the quiet strength of my loving heart.

I am setting clear intentions to embrace my empathetic and intuitive gifts fully. I honor who I am and take pride in the journey that has shaped me. I choose to keep growing into my strengths, allowing my empathy and intuition to shine even more brightly.

With mindful self-care, I will nurture and protect these sensitivities, ensuring they remain a source of strength and light.