Can you believe it’s already July? Time is flying. Maya completed her first year of preschool, we harvested broccoli from our garden that we sowed in early spring, and life itself has taken a turn since my dad passed away in early June.

A year ago, my dad was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer—an aggressive form called glioblastoma. For the past year, I took him to the hospital for treatment, attended doctor appointments, and managed household affairs. When he fell, he was taken off treatment and started hospice care. Alongside my sister and mom, we cared for him as he made his peaceful transition.

When asked, “How are you doing?” all I can say is that I’m grateful. I had almost a full year with him. I got to be with my dad, contribute to him as he did to me, and learn more about him, about life, and what’s really important. You see, he never wanted more than what he was given nor what he was able to receive. My dad lived a very resolved life. He was content with his dharma—his calling, the reason for his existence. There was something beautiful and admirable about his relationship with life.

After his passing, the season changed from spring to summer, my business went from a 2 to a 10, and I went from wanting more to be happy to being happy with less. I’ve decided that I don’t want to just work with anybody and everybody; I want to help people that I can really serve. People who appreciate the time, energy, and effort I put into my work. People who respect my time because time spent with them is time away from my family. People with big hearts and sound minds.

For the first time in my career as a real estate agent, I am clear on who I am meant to serve—and who is not a good fit for my services. It took many sleepless nights, sacrifices with my family, and, let’s be honest, money that I may never recoup. It cost me a lot to learn—and sometimes, that’s what it takes.

So, as I move into this next stage and phase of life, I’m bringing pieces of my dad with me into all aspects of life. I can hear him say, “It’s okay.” Yes, everything is and always will be okay, together. Take only what is yours and leave what is not. Respect your parents and live in reverence. Enjoy the moments as much as you can because we only get so much time in this life. Be grateful.

Until next time, namaste.