You Can Do This – Lynnie Stein

When it was announced that Louise Hay had peacefully passed away at a venerable age, my thoughts immediately turned to her first book, which she published at the age of 50.

Just look at the incredible journey she embarked on afterward!

I’ve noticed that this story is often cited as inspiration when people discuss writing books, embarking on new ventures, or achieving overnight success.

It’s a powerful message: it’s never too late to start over, publish a book, learn something new, or reinvent yourself.

If there’s one lesson this remarkable woman imparted, it’s that “you can do this.”

She exemplifies the idea that giving up is not an option.

While it’s essential to let go of negativity, never abandon yourself or your dreams.

Next to my computer, I keep two packs of Louise Hay’s affirmation cards.

Today’s insight from the “I Can Do It” deck reads:

“I get plenty of sleep every night. My body appreciates how I take care of it.”

Long, hot summers aren’t my favourite. I often find myself struggling to sleep well during these nights. However, when storms roll in, I feel thankful—they clear the energy and rejuvenate me, washing away the old and bringing in fresh perspectives. And tonight as I type, a big storm is rolling in.

The flip side of the card strikes a chord with me, as I’d expect:

“I lovingly do everything I can to assist my body in maintaining perfect health.”
Louise Hay

I can’t help but wonder if Louise Hay was present with me.

On Sunday, I had a day filled with simmering anger. After posing a detailed question, it felt as if I had unleashed a flood of chaos. An injury that had been healing well flared up as my more challenging emotions took control. Within moments, I was in pain—and laughing at my own predicament.

Through emotional awareness, I recognized what was unfolding; my anger was a message for me.

Isn’t it amazing how intelligent our bodies are?

I wonder what your body might be conveying to you at this moment.

Louise Hay teaches in her book, “You Can Heal Your Life,” that our thoughts shape our life experiences.

To achieve happiness, contentment, and inner peace, we must learn to love ourselves.

“Love is the great miracle cure. Loving ourselves works miracles in our lives.”
— Louise Hay

From what I’ve learned, an injury to the left side of the back ribs typically relates to support, the past, and the burden of guilt that manifests as pain.

Ask the pain what it is telling you.

“The left side of the body is often seen as the feminine side, the receiving side, representing the mother among other things.”

Without delving too deeply into my injury or life, this understanding resonates with me.

The path forward lies in forgiveness, letting go, and embracing love.

“Forgiveness is for yourself because it frees you. It releases you from the prison you’ve created.”
— Louise Hay

When I reflect on the environment I grew up in, it wasn’t devoid of love, but it certainly lacked the ability to express it. Conflicts were common. Experiences of early years left me carrying a heavy burden of guilt and shame, making it difficult for me to love myself.

“If your mother didn’t know how to love herself, or your father didn’t know how to love himself, it would be impossible for them to teach you to love yourself. They were doing their best with what they had learned as children.”
— Louise L. Hay

My father was extraordinary, yet a deeply troubled soul. I wouldn’t want to be married to him, but parents teach us invaluable lessons. We can also teach them. While they don’t receive a manual for parenting, neither do we. If we allow it, they can become trusted partners and friends. We’ve learned a bit more about forgiveness and self-love. It’s never too late to view your parents with fresh eyes, and hopefully, they can open their hearts as well. Regardless of your age, giving up on the things that matter to you should never be an option.

Here are three insights I’ve gathered from Louise Hay’s life and legacy:

It’s never too late to begin anew.

Louise Hay wrote and published her first book, “You Can Heal Your Life,” at the age of 50—what a fabulous milestone!

If there’s something you’ve been wanting to pursue, now is the perfect time.

Surround yourself with champions who believe in you and supporters who resonate with your mission.

Never give up on yourself or your dreams.

“What you choose to think about yourself and about life becomes true for you.”
— Louise Hay

Your body is a wellspring of wisdom.

Every moment, your body communicates with you.

Take a moment to pause, slow down, and breathe into each part of your body.

What do you observe?

Always listen to your body and do what it needs to thrive, as only you can determine what’s best for your well-being.

“When there is a problem, there is not something to do, there is something to know.”
— Louise Hay

Embrace your true self.

One of my favourite quotes by Oscar Wilde is, “Be yourself; everyone else is taken.”

When you learn to love yourself, you can truly be yourself—not the person others expect or the version you feel pressured to portray, but simply the authentic you.

“I am willing to release the need to feel unworthy.
I am deserving of the very best in life, and I now lovingly accept it.”
— Louise Hay

Louise Hay — October 8, 1926 — August 30, 2017

As with anyone who leaves us, I’m sure you have your own reflections on Louise Hay’s life and contributions.

She left behind a beautiful legacy, and you can too.

It’s never too late to learn to love yourself, be your authentic self, and share your insights with others to support them as well.

Just imagine the countless lives she has touched!

Think about the ripple effect if you could positively impact just one person, who in turn inspires another, and so forth—what a transformative impact that could have on the world.

That could be your legacy.

Remember, giving up is not an option.