Sar’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from January 6th
I’m currently at my son’s place, looking after his cat and dog while he and his wonderful bride, Jess, enjoy their honeymoon. Though I don’t have my usual setup here, I felt compelled to share a New Year’s message for 2025. This year invites us to wake up, step up, and rise to the challenges before us. Whether it feels like a storm of adversity or a gentle nudge, it’s an opportunity to reflect, empower ourselves, and extend that empowerment to others. Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and action, lighting the way for a brighter, more united future. Let’s embrace this year with purpose and an open heart, nurturing the strength and love within ourselves to inspire the world around us.
A new pattern must emerge—a transformative shift to create a better future. This change begins with us: changing our practices, our environment, and our sense of community. It’s a journey that starts within.
As we step into 2025, amidst the storms and uncertainties around us, I urge you to find peace and center within yourself. Reflect on your role, your contribution, and what you can do to uplift others. But first and foremost, be there for yourself. Embrace your inner wisdom—your heart, soul, and spirit. Nurture the essence of who you are so that you can be a beacon for someone else.
I look forward to the year ahead, bringing you incredible interviews with voices that inspire and uplift. My new shows begin next week, and I am deeply immersed in creating Our Forgotten Seniors. This book will honor the contributions, struggles, and wisdom of seniors while addressing the changes needed to redefine what it means to age with dignity and purpose.
If you or someone you know would like to be part of this meaningful project—sharing stories, insights, and ideas for a better future for seniors—please reach out to me at selfdiscoverywisdom@gmail.com.
Together, let’s take a deep breath, envision the future, and step forward with purpose and unity.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation, if you enjoyed this show please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support, thank you. and please support Our Forgotten Children’s anthology and help to bring this book in to awareness.
“Thank you all for being such great supporters. Your listenership is the reason I do what I do. A special thanks to all my podcast guests for sharing your time and wisdom.”
“We will be back in January 2025, ready to share more illuminations and wisdom to inspire, inform, and ignite meaningful conversations. With a renewed commitment to bringing you stories, insights, and guidance from incredible voices, we look forward to your continued listening and participation. Together, let’s embrace the journey of discovery, growth, and connection in the year ahead.”
“In January 2025, we’re excited to launch a new channel and begin production on Our Forgotten Seniors Podcast-Book. This project will bring powerful stories, insights, and voices to light, continuing our mission of sharing wisdom and inspiration. We can’t wait for you to join us on this journey!”
Sara’s View of Life with Troy, on air from December 17th
This is a tradition I’ve followed for many years, sharing reflections each holiday season. In past shows, I’ve talked about gift ideas, the importance of appreciating what you receive, and the often-overlooked workers in parking lots, grocery stores, and those working through the holidays. It’s vital to recognize and acknowledge others, especially those who may be alone or unable to celebrate Christmas. A small gesture, like a gift or a kind word, can show that you see and care about them.
The holiday season is celebrated in so many ways, depending on faith and culture. While Christmas is a focal point for many, it’s important to respect and embrace the different traditions, as they enrich our shared experience. After the challenges of the past few years—from the global pandemic to political upheaval and ongoing struggles—we still face much suffering. But I’m looking ahead to 2025 with hope. My vision is one of the “sisterhood of common sense Love,” where women step up to create a world built on love, cooperation, and community, rather than competition, greed, or violence.
If you know someone who will be alone this Christmas, consider inviting them to join your celebrations. It’s especially sad to see people alone during the holidays, whether they can’t be with family or follow a different faith. This season is an opportunity to learn about and embrace other traditions, broadening our perspectives. Christmas is truly a time for connection, joy, and community. My family celebrates in a unique way—our big celebration takes place on Boxing Day, with games, food, and small fun gifts, focusing on togetherness and making memories.
I also believe it’s important to celebrate birthdays, no matter how old we are. They represent another year of life, lessons, and blessings. Of course, Christmas has become very commercialized, but it’s essential to remind children to appreciate the gifts they receive and practice gratitude before rushing into the next one. Gratitude is something I’ve explored in many of my shows, and it’s a theme that can transform how we approach not only the holidays but life in general.
The holiday season can bring joy but also highlights the struggles many people face, including the suffering caused by wars, poverty, and political strife. One of the greatest gifts you can give is to donate to causes that support those in need, especially during this time of year. You can donate in someone’s name, making a meaningful impact. I know it’s an expensive time of year, but even small gestures can make a difference, and we all can contribute in ways that work for us.
As we approach the end of the year, I want to wish everyone a joyful holiday season, regardless of the celebration. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or another tradition, it’s a time to come together in gratitude, love, and hope. These celebrations offer us the opportunity to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year with optimism and faith.
I want to thank everyone who has supported Self Discovery Wisdom this year. While my statistics may not be high, every listener and reader is important to me. My mission is to provide wisdom and insights to help guide people, and I’m so grateful for those who tune in. In 2025, I’ll be working on some exciting projects, including the “Forgotten Children” and “Forgotten Seniors” books, shedding light on voices that are often overlooked.
As we enter the holiday season, remember that Christmas isn’t just about gifts. It’s about coming together, sharing, and celebrating the joy of life. Even if you’re not with family, you can create your own community and make memories with friends or coworkers. If you know someone who is alone, reach out, invite them in, and celebrate together. It’s not about the size of the house or the extravagance of the meal—it’s about connecting and sharing love.
During this festive season, I encourage you to practice gratitude. Before you dive into your meal or open your gifts, take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for. This practice shifts our focus from what we lack to what we already have, fostering a mindset of abundance. For those in pain or suffering, remember that even the smallest things, like the ability to speak or the chance to be with others, are reasons to be hopeful. Even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility of healing and transformation.
Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas, filled with love, joy, and connection. Whether you’re with family, friends, or both, take time to appreciate what you have and share the gift of togetherness.
Let’s be generous—generous with ourselves. We can give our funds, time, or love. One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time, attention, and love. That friendship, that care, that willingness to listen—is the greatest gift of all.
I truly hope you all share that gift with each other this festive season, no matter what you’re celebrating. From me, at SelfDiscoveryWisdom.com, thank you for listening, for caring, and for sharing your stories with us. I’m so excited about what’s to come in 2025 and all the wonderful shows we’ll continue bringing to you. I’m constantly meeting amazing people who are doing incredible things, all from the heart, and that’s what matters most. When it comes from the heart, you know it’s going to serve others well.
So, Merry, Merry Christmas! A Happy New Year to you all. We’ll see you in 2025.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation, if you enjoyed this show please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support, thank you. and please support Our Forgotten Children’s anthology and help to bring this book in to awareness.
Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from December 10th
I am a passionate advocate for giving books as gifts, not just at Christmas but anytime. A book is a gift that keeps on giving, offering readers lasting wisdom, inspiration, and joy. It lingers in their hearts and minds, sparking new ideas and delightful moments long after the last page is turned.
Here are some books that would make great gifts and please do listen to their shows with me.
These are only a few of the guests I interviewed on their books this year 2024.
SEE VIDEO/AUDIO SHOW BELOW THE BOOKS.
FIRST UP: OUR FORGOTTEN CHILDREN
I am proud to present this book with 15 co-authors on the systems that need to change around raising our children, let us not leave one behind. This is book one in the series.
Remy has one last obsession – to complete the restoration of his ’57 Studebaker Golden Hawk. He’s planned a road trip to Montreal to find a part he desperately needs. It’s a long way from Florida, his Chevy truck is almost as old as he is. There are doubts that he’ll be able to make the drive, doubts about his bladder, his heart, but he’s determined.
Mission Accepted 262 has 262 powerful women who share their wisdom with us. I am proud to be a part of it. I have also had the honor of interviewing many of the 262 authors on their unique stories.
I have had the privilege of interviewing Feroze Dada many times, and with each conversation, we venture deeper into the realms of heart and soul wisdom.
Dr LaRay Price,Supporting women in learning about self-love and why its important
I have worked as a psychologist for 23 years and I have rarely witnessed women taking care of themselves as as they care for others. My goal is to start a revolution where women learn that self-love extends longevity. Specialty Areas: Trauma Military Medicine. Women’s Issues.
At a time in the Zeitgeist stressing, the urgency for women to stand up, unite and take their power back, Carol Remz isn’t pulling any punches – it’s because menopause hit her early (mid-40s), causing a loss of libido and vaginal dryness over the next ten years. And her being married to a seven years younger husband who wouldn’t accept her declaration that sex wasn’t supposed to matter after menopause.
Elizabeth’s volunteer work with The Immigrant Story, a small nonprofit in Portland, Oregon, inspired her to write I Lived to Tell the World. Through her involvement, she heard powerful stories of resilience and hope from immigrants and refugees who had overcome incredible challenges.
Renaii was inspired to write The Wrong Side of the Flame, which Kirkus Reviews praised for its “literary pyrotechnics,” capturing the intensity and vibrancy of her unique subject matter. She chose to explore the lives of belly dancers, fire spitters, and dominatrixes, characters drawn from her experience as a professional belly dancer and from the vibrant culture of Renaissance Faires.
With warmth, wit, and lyrical prose, Stay offers insight for those facing mid-life challenges, parenting adult children, and battling fear and self-doubt. Above all, it’s for readers seeking to reflect, feel, laugh, and view their own path with fresh perspective.
Jenny Garufi, an acclaimed author, speaker, and healer, discovered her life purpose through a healing experience that cured seven years of illness in three weeks. Over 20 years, she has gathered tools to foster self-love and self-worth, empowering others to attract aligned relationships and circumstances. Her latest book, Mindfulness Exercises in the Shower, offers 21 days of simple exercises to kickstart your mindfulness journey.
Stacia Moffett, author of the Lost and Found in Tennessee series, draws on her experiences growing up in Nashville and studying in 1960s Mississippi. Her two-book historical fiction series, The Missing Girl and Jessa Is Back, explores the South’s cultural and racial legacies through stories of friendship, resilience, and identity.
The Science of Human Possibilities with Dr. Kumar Murty presents a convincing narrative where evolution and spirituality are complementary, not competing forces...
Grinelle “Buzz” Desjarlais, author of Saving KC , the historical fiction novel set against the backdrop of post-Vietnam America which delves into the complexities of addiction, recovery and redemption.
The culture you were raised in has likely obscured your true identity, not just from others, but from you as well. This book will explain who and what you truly are deep inside and set forth a simple process to make the most of what’s now odds-on your hidden potential. If you’re willing to take the time and expend the effort to read or listen to this book, you’ll not only learn why you’re here on Earth, you’ll discover the path to take to create the successful life you may have only dreamed of until now.
Enfant Terrible, a work of rollercoaster literary fiction that took 15 years to complete, got its name after an expression that is normally used to describe a person known for shocking remarks or outrageous behavior, which is appropriate because the story’s main character, Damen Warner, is the front man for a metalcore band.
Colorado native and award-winning author Lee Lindauer is an active member of the International Thriller Writers, has participated on author panels at ThrillerFest, and served as co-editor for The Big Thrill magazine.
Sandra Wasko-Flood, artist, poet, and founder of Living Labyrinths for Peace, inspired labyrinth walking on the U.S. Capitol’s Eastern lawn. Her book, The Labyrinth Path to Light and Peace, shares her vision of healing and peace through this transformative practice.
Hannah Skye, a young woman in search of meaning, receives a cryptic letter from her missing and eccentric Aunt Jewelia. Her experience of a recurring powerful pumpkin patch dream unfolds into a spiritual journey to a mysterious island of eternal autumn, Maple Hollow, where she discovers the mystical Skye Manor and her magickal family legacy.
Barbara J. Taylor, author of Rain Breaks No Bones Set in 1955, this final installment in Taylor’s best-selling Scranton Trilogy explores a family’s legacy of loss and a sometimes mystical vision of a better tomorrow.
THE AUTHOR MEANS IT WHEN HE SAYS YOU CAN BE BETTER THAN EVER. Embrace Your Age isn’t as sweet & forgiving as its predecessor, DEAR OLD FRIENDS. Mr. Flaherty, who says he’s an optimistic 87-year-old-going-on-60, nails your self-doubts and insecurities whether you’re 50, 60, 70, or 80+, with some direct calls to action.
In “Well of course”, author Dr. Tamara Stephens presents a transformative guide that will help you discover the extraordinary lessons that are hidden within the most ordinary experiences.
Social media sensation Marisa McGrady is the Fairy Godmother with a self-help guide that isn’t one-size-fits-all… Modern media makes self-love seem simple. Buy a bath bomb, apply a face mask, and voila! You’ve got self love commodified and canned for your convenience. But self-love cannot be bought. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to self-care.
Stefani shares how our upbringings, societal norms, lack of self-love and others’ expectations can lead us away from our authentic selves, and how it is never too late to pause, realign and become the creator of the life you really want. Listen for practical guidance on how you can begin to redesign your life at any age and to receive inspiration about why you deserve to create a life you love.
Judy Wilkins-Smith – World-renowned Systemic Work and Constellations Expert, Motivational Speaker, and Author of Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint: A Powerful Guide to Transformation through Disentangling Multigenerational Patterns (Sounds True) offers guidance for disentangling your inherited family patterns so you can transform your relationship with money.
I am a science fiction author, and I specialize in Hopepunk. Why hopepunk, and why me? Look, it’s no surprise that you can look around today and find all sorts of indicators that we are entering Heinlein’s “Crazy Years.” Imagining a dystopian or grimdark future isn’t difficult; all you have to do is read the news. But I think that we are writing the history of the future right now, by the choices we make every day.
Dare To Live Fearless: How We Took Back Our Power From Our Fears And How You Can Do It Too is a powerful compilation of stories from brave men and women around the world. In this book, you get a front-row seat into the lives of each co-author as they tell the tales of their fears and fight for freedom. You will see your fears reflected in the mirror of their stories. It’s okay. You will also find your tools in their stories.
Alexandria, a gem among Our Forgotten Children’s book authors, has dedicated years to youth work.
My Self Discovery to Soul Living. Sara embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery and positive soul-living. This book navigates her early years in England, South Africa, and the USA before settling in BC, Canada. This narrative is a tale of personal evolution and an account of companionship and adventures with her beloved dogs, Kandy and Kokomo, and her children.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation, if you enjoyed this show please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support, thank you. and please support Our Forgotten Children’s anthology and help to bring this book in to awareness.
Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening, everyone! Welcome back to another edition of Sara’s View of Life right here on selfdiscoverywisdom.org. I’m your host, Sara Troy.
Today, I want to talk about community, friendship, and putting ourselves out there to meet new people. December is upon us, and for many, it can be a lonely time of year. As someone who’s relatively new to my neighborhood—just seven months in—I’ve been learning the importance of making an effort to build connections. Whether it’s joining groups, starting conversations, or stepping out of our comfort zones, forming relationships takes initiative.
When I first moved here, I was overwhelmed with setting up my house, working on my shows, and caring for my grandchildren. Add to that some health challenges, and I didn’t make time to engage with others. But now, I’ve started reaching out. I’ve connected with people in my retirement community and even made a wonderful friend named Lynn. In December, a group of us are planning a ladies’ night out—a little Christmas party to treat ourselves.
I also attended an Alignable event recently, which was an incredible opportunity to meet people locally. Alignable is a great platform for networking, and their local events are a fantastic way to connect with others. At this event, I met Sharon, a lovely woman whose focus on health and wellness I can’t wait to share with you in an upcoming interview.
It’s not just about business connections, though; it’s about creating moments of joy, building friendships, and expanding our circles. For many single women, especially as we get older, the opportunities to socialize can seem limited. But instead of waiting for invitations, we can create our own events. Gather some friends or acquaintances, dress up, and enjoy a festive dinner. Or, if that’s not an option, consider volunteering.
December is full of opportunities to give back. Volunteer at a food bank, a toy drive, or an animal shelter. Help out at a local church or retirement home. By stepping into these spaces, you not only make a difference but also open the door to meaningful connections. Even if it feels uncomfortable at first, it’s worth it for the sense of belonging and purpose it can bring.
If going out isn’t an option, consider hosting a virtual gathering. Use platforms like Zoom or Facebook Live to invite others for a casual chat. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a time to connect. Pour a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and let the conversation flow. It’s amazing how these small steps can build a sense of community.
For those of you who know someone who may be feeling isolated this season, reach out. Knock on a neighbor’s door, offer to pick up groceries, or invite them for tea. If you can’t include them in your own holiday celebrations, drop off a little gift to let them know they’re seen and valued. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact.
Loneliness can be especially hard during the holidays, and we must remember those around us who might be struggling. Seniors, single parents, or displaced families may need an extra bit of care and connection. Consider opening your home or table to someone in need—it could make all the difference in their holiday experience.
Let’s make this season about more than just celebrations. Let’s create moments of care and connection, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued. Together, we can make this time of year a little brighter for everyone.
That’s what Christmas is all about, isn’t it? It’s about embracing one another, setting the table, and being inclusive. Sure, it’s about family, but who says family always has to be blood? Family can be the people you choose to surround yourself with—those who uplift and support you.
I’d love to do more of that here. As someone still new to my community, I’m slowly building connections. But even now, I plan to involve the people I’ve met, especially those who may be spending the holidays alone. It’s important to bring others into the fold. While I do have my own family, and we’ll celebrate on Boxing Day with everyone gathered, I might invite a couple of friends over for a Christmas breakfast to ensure no one feels left out. It’s the small gestures that matter most.
If you’re wondering what you can do, start small. Get dressed up, head out, and treat yourself to lunch. I’ve spent many meals alone, enjoying my own company, people-watching, and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a habit I developed out of necessity growing up shy, but it taught me the value of being comfortable in my own skin. Whether you go solo or invite a friend, taking that step to do something is what counts.
Budgets can be tight during the holidays, and I get that. My focus is usually on meaningful, fun, and simple gifts rather than expensive ones. It’s not about the price—it’s about the thought and the love behind it. Something handmade, a small token, or even a gesture like a babysitting voucher can mean so much. The greatest gift, however, is simply being present with one another.
I’m grateful to be forming new friendships in my community. Being able to say, “Let’s go for coffee or lunch,” and enjoy someone’s company is such a gift. We need to create our own tribes, wherever we are. Don’t isolate yourself, don’t switch yourself off, and don’t discount your worth. If you feel alone, participate in something. Join a group, go for walks, or simply greet a passerby with a smile and a hello.
We’ve forgotten how to connect, haven’t we? We’re so absorbed in our phones or preoccupied with our own lives that we forget the power of a simple interaction. Let’s lift our heads, share a smile, and engage with the world around us. There’s so much warmth and connection waiting for us if we only embrace it.
I’m excited for another upcoming meeting where I’ll get to meet even more people. It’s an evening event, which works better with my schedule, and it’s conveniently close by. It’s opportunities like this that remind me there’s always a door open somewhere. You just need to find the right group for you, whether it’s business-related, hobby-based, or simply a social gathering. It’s all about the camaraderie and building those connections that bring meaning to the season.
This message beautifully captures the essence of community, kindness, and mindfulness, especially during the often hectic holiday season. Sara emphasizes several key points that resonate deeply:
The Importance of Connection: Whether it’s through a business group focused on camaraderie rather than competition, or simply inviting friends over for a meal, connection is vital. Finding ways to engage with others and support one another, especially during challenging times, brings warmth and purpose to the season.
Mindful Holiday Shopping: Amidst the frenzy of holiday shopping, Sara reminds us to practice patience and kindness. Both shoppers and workers are stressed, and a simple smile or kind word can transform the experience for everyone involved.
Adaptability and Simplicity: Delays and shortages may arise due to postal strikes or other factors, but the emphasis should remain on the thoughtfulness of the gesture rather than the physical gift. Even a note or IOU can convey the spirit of giving without unnecessary stress.
Financial Mindfulness: Sara’s own approach—sticking to cash and avoiding credit card debt—is a valuable reminder to prioritize financial well-being over the pressure to overspend.
Extending Kindness to the Isolated: Including those who might otherwise spend the holidays alone is a beautiful way to embody the season’s true meaning. Whether it’s a neighbor, a friend, or a stranger, a small gesture can make a significant impact.
The Gift of Positivity: A smile, a cheerful demeanor, and spreading love are the simplest yet most profound gifts we can give. Sara’s closing wish for love, joy, and peace reminds us all of what truly matters during the holidays and beyond.
This heartfelt reminder to be kind, mindful, and inclusive is a perfect message for the season. ?
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation, if you enjoyed this show please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support, thank you. and please support Our Forgotten Children’s anthology and help to bring this book in to awareness.
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