Anastasia Lee is thriving. She has a great career, a son, a family and a full life. She’s an activist for animal welfare and foster children. Her life could have been so much different. Anastasia was born in Russia. When she was a little girl, she (along with her younger sister) was placed in an orphanage. The odds of her being adopted were not in her favor. Yet, she was adopted, and her life was changed forever. Anastasia came to the United States not knowing English or anything about America.
In our interview, we discuss the dynamics of being adopted, learning a new culture, how she views being adopted and why she doesn’t like Halloween.
Monthly Archives: July 2022
Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes. Every day. There’s even a series of books for “dummies” that are designed to keep us from making mistakes when we are learning something new!
Our past mistakes or the fear of making a mistake shouldn’t prevent us from trying and learning new things. They are part of the process.
When was the last time you tried something new? Why not make it today…
What a Drag
People who have mediocre mindsets will try to drag you down to their way of thinking. You can’t lift them up. It’s best to take the hard step and separate yourself from those people. They will find other prey, and you will be better off…
Stories
We assume things. For example, when we meet someone who reminds us of someone else, we have a tendency to treat them like the other person they remind us of. This is called projection, and it’s not right or fair. Each person needs to be considered individually for who they are.
Don’t get caught up in the stories we tell ourselves. You might miss something…
Unreachable
Have you ever had a conversation with someone, but realize you aren’t getting through to them?
There’s a handful of reasons for this. Maybe they have an inflated ego, and really don’t care what anyone else has to say. Or perhaps there is something going on in their lives that has taken all their energy.
If it’s ego, stop trying and walk away. If it is a distraction, show compassion and listen…
Trying
Life is hard and life can be harsh. People seem to be caught up in selfishness to the point of being rude.
When you see someone trying to make it, offer some encouragement. Even a small amount of progress is growth. You never know how an encouraging word might propel someone to keep going…
Healing
Over the course of my life, I have healed from a lot of trauma and emotional pain. I remind myself daily that not everyone has done the self-work required for restoration. By doing this, I’m able to be a peacemaker rather than divider.
Bring peace when you can, not division…
Drifting
Are you leading or following? Most people simply drift through life, accepting whatever comes their way. Others set their minds to achieve their purpose, their true calling.
If you want to lead others, know where you are going. Why would I follow someone who did know where they are going?
Cleanup Crew
Everyone has their own set of personal challenges. It is not our responsibility to “fix” anyone but ourselves. Our job is to encourage others in their battles.
Do the work. It’s hard, but it’s worth it…
Oops!
Have you ever said something and instantly regretted it? If we are being honest, we all have. And we will again!
When you find yourself in this position, apologize immediately. Don’t make excuses such as, “I’m having a bad day.” The excuse just takes away from the apology. It doesn’t excuse bad behavior.
Try to take the high road. Always. But when you go low, make amends…