The Moment Life Shifted
Peaceful and purposeful living—it’s more than just a phrase. Instead, it’s about finding balance amidst the chaos. For me, this journey truly began with a life-changing moment: the birth of my baby boy last year. That moment felt divine, like God handed me a big, blinking reset button. I knew it was time to embrace it.
I didn’t just press it—I leaned all the way in.
My days were filled with deadlines and to-do lists. I endlessly juggled the tasks of raising kids, pursuing my master’s degree, and managing a budding blog. On most days, I felt like I was running on fumes, trying to be everything to everyone.
Then came sleepless nights and diaper changes. At first, it felt like just another layer of chaos piling onto an already overwhelming schedule. Yet, slowly but surely, I realized something profound: I was being forced to slow down. To pause. To breathe. Gradually, in that stillness, something shifted.
I began to notice things I’d overlooked for years. The way my baby’s tiny fingers curled around mine. The peace of a quiet moment after everyone else had gone to bed. It was undeniably overwhelming at first, yet it also felt like a precious gift.
How Intentional Choices Led to Peaceful & Purposeful Living
One evening, as I rocked my son to sleep, I made a decision. I was done delaying the values that mattered to me. It was time to start making thoughtful decisions every day.
For example, I began rethinking what surrounded us. Specifically, I chose soft, organic fabrics for my baby’s clothes and blankets—no more synthetic fibers that felt harsh or impersonal. Some of our favorite pieces are Jeddah’s hand-crocheted baby kufi hats. Additionally, I replaced the toxic cleaning sprays in our home with natural alternatives. Shopping for groceries changed significantly. I prioritized locally grown produce and focused on halal farm trips. I also said goodbye to unnecessary packaging.
These changes weren’t just about sustainability. They were about creating a home filled with love, care, and intention. Every buy became an act of care. A reflection of the peaceful, purposeful life I wanted to build for my family.
Discovering Joy in Gratitude
To keep my sanity, I started taking gratitude walks with my baby. At first, they were simply a way to escape the constant noise of everyday life. Yet, they quickly became one of my favorite parts of the day.
I walked beneath the trees. I noticed the beauty in the small things. The shimmer of sunlight on leaves caught my eye. I heard the sounds of birds. The pure joy of my baby’s giggles filled the air. The crisp fresh air was invigorating. These moments grounded me. They reminded me of the spiritual value of appreciating the world around us.
Each step felt like a prayer of gratitude. Thank you God for the gift of stillness. Thank you God for the chance to reset. They reminded me of the beauty in slowing down.
Reconnecting With My Faith
Slowing down didn’t just change how I lived—it transformed how I connected with my Lord.
In the quiet moments, I found space to ponder and realign. Gradually, I made time for prayer, not just as a ritual but as a moment to center myself. Thus, my supplications became more focused, and my intentions grew clearer. It felt like I was rebuilding a part of myself that had been neglected in the rush of life.
Faith became my anchor in this journey of peaceful and purposeful living.
What I’ve Learned About Embracing Peaceful & Purposeful Living
Here’s what I know now:
- Start Small: Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A single thoughtful decision—like switching to natural cleaning products—can ripple out and inspire other changes.
- Be Intentional: Every choice, big or small, can convey your values. From the clothes you wear to the way you spend your time, align your actions with your purpose.
- Pause for Gratitude: Take a daily walk, journal if that’s your thing, or meditate quietly. Use these moments to appreciate the little things. After all, gratitude has a way of shifting your perspective and bringing peace to your heart.
Your Turn: What’s Your First Step?
This journey taught me that small steps can lead to big transformations. Now, I’d love to hear from you.
What’s one small, intentional change you’ve made (or want to make) in your life? For instance, is it swapping a product, starting a gratitude practice, or something else entirely? I’d love to know! Share your story with me in the comments, or feel free to shoot me a message at here.
Let’s inspire each other to keep moving toward peaceful and purposeful living.
Peacefully & Sustainably On The Run 🌱
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