The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. –Oprah Winfrey

I can’t help but notice my Facebook feed is flooded with graduation announcements pictures and videos. It is that time of year again. As an older student I have watched all of my friends around me graduate and move on with their lives as I dropped out of school, gave up, and got jealous of everyone else’s success. Now, I can truly be happy for those moving on with their lives. Is it because I know that I am only a year from graduating myself? No. It is because I am at a place where I can appreciate the things that I have done in my life. I can be proud of where I am at today. Sure, I leave out some of the less than glamorous aspects of my past life. However, there are so many things that I have done that are worth mentioning. I’ve lived life. I’ve traveled. I have seen many places, experienced many cultures. Lived in many cities. Had lots of wonderful roommates. Made tons of friends. I’ve loved and been loved back. I have heard lots of great music and ate tons of great food. So at this time of year when I usually get resentful at the people moving on with their lives, graduates, ready to go out and experience the world. I remember that every day I experience the world. Everyday, I have a new experience. Everyday, something new happens that I can appreciate, if I stop and notice it.

To the new graduates, I am truly happy for you. Treat yourself. You’ve earned it. For the rest of us stop and think about what has been great about your life. Something new you experienced yesterday, or what you plan to do today. If we stop and think we will see that life is truly a celebration.

Affirmation: Each day I accomplish something new; therefore my life is full of accomplishments.

Call to action: Think about where you were a year ago, a month ago, last week, and yesterday. Think about what’s different and what you can celebrate with us. Please share your thoughts below or post about it and tag us. #cylfriday