I know I won't be the only one to read this and want to give you the biggest virtual hug. The universe may have it's plans, but at the moment I'm sure this feels like the biggest plot twist imaginable. You suited Paris, Paris suited you. I met you, very briefly, in the jardin du luxembourg last December, and we spoke about running from something ( and towards something, both things can be true ) and the words you wrote above about holding that past self in your arms and showing her the love she needed struck such a chord.
My biggest rejection was my dismissal from a job that had become everything, and that loss changed everything for me, I became happier, so much healthier, and realised I was much more than the job I did. For a long time after I gave credit for all those changes to that loss, yet in the last few years I've realised that those changes weren't a given, but down to choices I made for myself. So yes, I believe rejection is re-direction, that the rejection turns us away from things that aren't right for us, or rather not right for us any longer, but the infinite possibilities that are left are ours to take, or not? Hold on tightly to Hope, physically and metaphorically 🤍
this means so much to read, thank you Sharon. I remember our meeting and how serendipitous it felt. Your story is really comforting and inspiring, again thank you xx
I don't know where your story is heading next, and the many possibilities can't take away the sadness at leaving Paris, but I know you will make it as beautiful as you made your life there. I'm not sure if this will be a comforting thought or not, but perhaps 'your' visa, your permission to stay in Paris has found it's way, or is finding it's way to someone who really needs Paris, or France, very much in their life right now. Take lots of care x
I’m so sorry to hear this and I know it must be so daunting thinking about what is next. I lived in the United States for 14 years and, due to a government rule, I ended up having to leave and return to the UK alone. I was 4,000 miles away from family, no job, no home, I had to ship my dog over later and I would cry myself to sleep every night worrying about what I would do. BUT, I’m happier now than I ever was in the US. Ironically, so many of the life circumstances that have been completely out of my control have been for the better. I know my capabilities now, I’m happier, my dog is happier, we live the quiet life we dreamed of and I feel at home. It’ll be scary for a while but I promise it’ll get better. Sending huge hugs from Wales!
P.S. Your beautiful life inspired me to book a solo birthday trip to Paris in November. The inspiration you gave me was from you and how you choose to live, not where you live. With that being said, thank you for this and I know you will thrive anywhere.
Oh my goodness this must have been horrific. I can understand the feelings all too well right now. Lots and lots of tears, but it’s so important to feel it out as part of the process. I’m really pleased to hear you’re happier now, as well as your pooch xx
What a redirection, and in the middle of eclipse season too Jess. That you have done so much inner work though suggests there’s an amazing upgrade on the way, something you couldn’t have dreamt up yourself but oh what a blow to a tender heart right now 💔😢 We are all rooting for you. Hope these cyber hugs comfort you till your next step becomes obvious 🤗 🤗 Thank you for the update 🙏 🩷
right?! the timing was nuts. As soon as the moon went into virgo I got an email and collected the result the day after the solar eclipse. Your support means everything, thank you xx
Good morning, Jess. I am sending you love and a hug from across the pond. Redirections can be very devastating and, in total hindsight, weirdly liberating. This entire year has been a redirection for me: losing my job in March, finding balance between nurturing my creativity and managing new work as a paralegal, and then getting diagnosed with Lyme at the beginning of the summer. But last Wednesday, I received news that I have relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), so I am walking through a new portal, feeling what I need to feel and just listening. I am not sure where the next turn will lead me. Right now, one day at a time - present moment.
What a curveball! Your post shows what emotional intelligence you have and even though it may be painful, maybe life has something even more magical in store for you.
I wanted to share a story of my redirection in the hope it may be comforting. I went to art college and spent 15 years working as an artist, my entire identity was tied to being an artist, all I did was paint and sell my work and hustle and literally lived and breathed being an artist, I genuinely thought there was nothing else I was put on this planet for. No matter what I did, I could never quite make the income I really needed. It was hugely physical work painting giant canvases, delivering to people’s houses etc. after years of just getting by I literally had to stop and I surrendered. Even though it felt like I didn’t know who I was without it. It felt like my art and my soul was rejected and it was so painful and humiliating.
After surrendering I was given a redirection, I randomly added a few pieces of jewellery I’d made to my website and a self love journal full of images I had drawn and people went mad for them, 5 years later I’m still selling my jewellery, and prints. I get to be creative and fulfilled, it’s far easier, more enjoyable and so much more profitable. I am so glad that happened, even though at the time I felt nothing but sadness, my life is so much better as a result of it, my art is now my hobby and not my entire identity.
Wishing you all the love on this in between chapter of your life X
Life!?! Am I right? In my own limbo here, I have been reading about the Buddhist concept of Bardo, traditionally the time between life and death, but also applicable to any transitional state or inbetween times. Ann Tashi Slater’s book “Travelling in Bardo” is illuminating, and is helping me be here, maybe it will inspire you and others too 🥰
One day it will make sense. In the meantime breathe deeply, and try to lean into it all.
During the pandemic I ended a relationship, sold my house, and moved 3,000 miles across the country believing that my employer would continue to let me work remotely or I’d find another job. It didn’t work out that way. I was called back to work and I didn’t find another job. I drove my tiny car frantically back across the country in the Winter through snow and mountains. I worked for a few months then had to fly back again to retrieve my belongings, rented a truck and drove the 3,000 miles. It cost me a fortune monetarily, and emotionally. It was VERY messy. I rented an interesting space and lived for a couple of years working and concentrating on yoga. Eventually I reunited with my partner and returned to the home I had sold, now I’m a renter. It may look, from the outside that I stepped back into my old life, but trust me I absolutely haven’t. Nothing is the same. It’s like I peeled away layers and found myself. I lost friends and the support of my family. They don’t understand. I am so much happier. It’s as though the shift in me had to take place. I’m so grateful and still uncovering the gift of uncertainty. I hope you do too.
‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.’
(As You Like It, Act 2, Scene 7)
I hope your next part, in your time, is as rewarding as Paris. Thinking of you.
Oh Jess!! Am sending you so much love and hope right now. Life is pants sometimes! I’ve had some big redirections in recent years - one where I quit my job and retrained/ launched a business, only to then not like that, and go back full circle to my old world. Turns out it was for the best but a hard pill to swallow after all my hard work (and telling everyone I’d changed my mind). Also in my experience of infertility - that was life well and truly out of my hands. I survived both, thank goodness. Hoping you move through this time soon - we’re here when you feel creative! xx.
Beautiful Jess… I find that that little berry of unease (rejection) it’s actually “redirection” fermented into a treat of fruit to savour in time 🍎 … yes, not always clear at the time , but experience over and over can clarify. X
Oh my goodness. I can’t imagine how hard this news has been…I’m so sorry. Is there any hope that this can be resolved? You have so much grace, Jessica. I feel quite angry about this news ☹️
I’m so sorry to hear about your visa issues. I always thought Paris would be your home base and I still hope that even if you have to take a break that one day you’ll be able to return. I do know, however, that your travels generated some beautiful writing and vlogs this summer, so maybe a change of scenery will be good. Just remember that even though Paris may not be your home right now doesn’t mean it won’t be in the future. Take care and know we’re rooting for you ❤️.
I understand. The uncertainty of chaos and disruption is a large pill to swallow.
About a month ago, a large part of my business (and my income) was suddenly stripped away. Gone. Nothing.
The first few days of huge shifts I felt shocked. Disbelief. How could this happen. What have I done? I’ve settled in now and am practicing releasing control and trusting the flow.
It is so hard.
When I think of recreating fifteen years of work, it feels devastating.
I am trusting that as I surrender, opportunities will arrive and carry me in a better suited direction.
I pray peace and clarity for you as you move through these immense changes.
I know I won't be the only one to read this and want to give you the biggest virtual hug. The universe may have it's plans, but at the moment I'm sure this feels like the biggest plot twist imaginable. You suited Paris, Paris suited you. I met you, very briefly, in the jardin du luxembourg last December, and we spoke about running from something ( and towards something, both things can be true ) and the words you wrote above about holding that past self in your arms and showing her the love she needed struck such a chord.
My biggest rejection was my dismissal from a job that had become everything, and that loss changed everything for me, I became happier, so much healthier, and realised I was much more than the job I did. For a long time after I gave credit for all those changes to that loss, yet in the last few years I've realised that those changes weren't a given, but down to choices I made for myself. So yes, I believe rejection is re-direction, that the rejection turns us away from things that aren't right for us, or rather not right for us any longer, but the infinite possibilities that are left are ours to take, or not? Hold on tightly to Hope, physically and metaphorically 🤍
this means so much to read, thank you Sharon. I remember our meeting and how serendipitous it felt. Your story is really comforting and inspiring, again thank you xx
I don't know where your story is heading next, and the many possibilities can't take away the sadness at leaving Paris, but I know you will make it as beautiful as you made your life there. I'm not sure if this will be a comforting thought or not, but perhaps 'your' visa, your permission to stay in Paris has found it's way, or is finding it's way to someone who really needs Paris, or France, very much in their life right now. Take lots of care x
I’m so sorry to hear this and I know it must be so daunting thinking about what is next. I lived in the United States for 14 years and, due to a government rule, I ended up having to leave and return to the UK alone. I was 4,000 miles away from family, no job, no home, I had to ship my dog over later and I would cry myself to sleep every night worrying about what I would do. BUT, I’m happier now than I ever was in the US. Ironically, so many of the life circumstances that have been completely out of my control have been for the better. I know my capabilities now, I’m happier, my dog is happier, we live the quiet life we dreamed of and I feel at home. It’ll be scary for a while but I promise it’ll get better. Sending huge hugs from Wales!
P.S. Your beautiful life inspired me to book a solo birthday trip to Paris in November. The inspiration you gave me was from you and how you choose to live, not where you live. With that being said, thank you for this and I know you will thrive anywhere.
Oh my goodness this must have been horrific. I can understand the feelings all too well right now. Lots and lots of tears, but it’s so important to feel it out as part of the process. I’m really pleased to hear you’re happier now, as well as your pooch xx
What a redirection, and in the middle of eclipse season too Jess. That you have done so much inner work though suggests there’s an amazing upgrade on the way, something you couldn’t have dreamt up yourself but oh what a blow to a tender heart right now 💔😢 We are all rooting for you. Hope these cyber hugs comfort you till your next step becomes obvious 🤗 🤗 Thank you for the update 🙏 🩷
right?! the timing was nuts. As soon as the moon went into virgo I got an email and collected the result the day after the solar eclipse. Your support means everything, thank you xx
Good morning, Jess. I am sending you love and a hug from across the pond. Redirections can be very devastating and, in total hindsight, weirdly liberating. This entire year has been a redirection for me: losing my job in March, finding balance between nurturing my creativity and managing new work as a paralegal, and then getting diagnosed with Lyme at the beginning of the summer. But last Wednesday, I received news that I have relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), so I am walking through a new portal, feeling what I need to feel and just listening. I am not sure where the next turn will lead me. Right now, one day at a time - present moment.
thank you so much! I'm so sorry to hear about your diagnosis and sending you all the love and hugs on your way through your new portal xx
Dearest Jess,
What a curveball! Your post shows what emotional intelligence you have and even though it may be painful, maybe life has something even more magical in store for you.
I wanted to share a story of my redirection in the hope it may be comforting. I went to art college and spent 15 years working as an artist, my entire identity was tied to being an artist, all I did was paint and sell my work and hustle and literally lived and breathed being an artist, I genuinely thought there was nothing else I was put on this planet for. No matter what I did, I could never quite make the income I really needed. It was hugely physical work painting giant canvases, delivering to people’s houses etc. after years of just getting by I literally had to stop and I surrendered. Even though it felt like I didn’t know who I was without it. It felt like my art and my soul was rejected and it was so painful and humiliating.
After surrendering I was given a redirection, I randomly added a few pieces of jewellery I’d made to my website and a self love journal full of images I had drawn and people went mad for them, 5 years later I’m still selling my jewellery, and prints. I get to be creative and fulfilled, it’s far easier, more enjoyable and so much more profitable. I am so glad that happened, even though at the time I felt nothing but sadness, my life is so much better as a result of it, my art is now my hobby and not my entire identity.
Wishing you all the love on this in between chapter of your life X
Life!?! Am I right? In my own limbo here, I have been reading about the Buddhist concept of Bardo, traditionally the time between life and death, but also applicable to any transitional state or inbetween times. Ann Tashi Slater’s book “Travelling in Bardo” is illuminating, and is helping me be here, maybe it will inspire you and others too 🥰
One day it will make sense. In the meantime breathe deeply, and try to lean into it all.
During the pandemic I ended a relationship, sold my house, and moved 3,000 miles across the country believing that my employer would continue to let me work remotely or I’d find another job. It didn’t work out that way. I was called back to work and I didn’t find another job. I drove my tiny car frantically back across the country in the Winter through snow and mountains. I worked for a few months then had to fly back again to retrieve my belongings, rented a truck and drove the 3,000 miles. It cost me a fortune monetarily, and emotionally. It was VERY messy. I rented an interesting space and lived for a couple of years working and concentrating on yoga. Eventually I reunited with my partner and returned to the home I had sold, now I’m a renter. It may look, from the outside that I stepped back into my old life, but trust me I absolutely haven’t. Nothing is the same. It’s like I peeled away layers and found myself. I lost friends and the support of my family. They don’t understand. I am so much happier. It’s as though the shift in me had to take place. I’m so grateful and still uncovering the gift of uncertainty. I hope you do too.
‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.’
(As You Like It, Act 2, Scene 7)
I hope your next part, in your time, is as rewarding as Paris. Thinking of you.
thank you so much for sharing
Oh Jess!! Am sending you so much love and hope right now. Life is pants sometimes! I’ve had some big redirections in recent years - one where I quit my job and retrained/ launched a business, only to then not like that, and go back full circle to my old world. Turns out it was for the best but a hard pill to swallow after all my hard work (and telling everyone I’d changed my mind). Also in my experience of infertility - that was life well and truly out of my hands. I survived both, thank goodness. Hoping you move through this time soon - we’re here when you feel creative! xx.
thank you for sharing this with us all. It's really beautiful and comforting to read xx
So sorry to hear this. I can only imagine how devastating this must have been. No wonder you have been quiet…
I truly hope that you be will given another chance to return home.
Beautiful Jess… I find that that little berry of unease (rejection) it’s actually “redirection” fermented into a treat of fruit to savour in time 🍎 … yes, not always clear at the time , but experience over and over can clarify. X
Oh my goodness. I can’t imagine how hard this news has been…I’m so sorry. Is there any hope that this can be resolved? You have so much grace, Jessica. I feel quite angry about this news ☹️
It's not hopeless. There are options. I'm just feeling everything out for now - thank you xx
I’m so sorry to hear about your visa issues. I always thought Paris would be your home base and I still hope that even if you have to take a break that one day you’ll be able to return. I do know, however, that your travels generated some beautiful writing and vlogs this summer, so maybe a change of scenery will be good. Just remember that even though Paris may not be your home right now doesn’t mean it won’t be in the future. Take care and know we’re rooting for you ❤️.
I’m so sorry, why on earth wouldn’t they renew your visa!? You’ve been a such a wonderful ambassador for Paris 🤷🏻♀️
Onwards and upwards. Easy to say I know. Sometimes this really does mean a return to your roots, if only for a short time x
I understand. The uncertainty of chaos and disruption is a large pill to swallow.
About a month ago, a large part of my business (and my income) was suddenly stripped away. Gone. Nothing.
The first few days of huge shifts I felt shocked. Disbelief. How could this happen. What have I done? I’ve settled in now and am practicing releasing control and trusting the flow.
It is so hard.
When I think of recreating fifteen years of work, it feels devastating.
I am trusting that as I surrender, opportunities will arrive and carry me in a better suited direction.
I pray peace and clarity for you as you move through these immense changes.
❤️