Sometimes a challenge arrives at the perfect time and this one – The 3 Day Quote Challenge – caught me when I find myself surrounded by quotes, absorbed in collecting them, reading through old ones, finding new ones.
For the next three days, I will be posting a quote and explaining why it’s made an impression on me.
To the challenge…The rules are as follows:
- Thank the person who nominated you.
- Post a quote on 3 consecutive days.
- Share why this quote appeals so much to you.
- Nominate 3 different bloggers for each day.
Many thanks to Laura at laurabrunolilly.com for nominating me.
Rules and I don’t always mix well; so my quotes may be a bit longer and my first foray into the challenge begins with a ‘Blessing of Solitude’.
The above is an authentic Celtic blessing found in a book written by John O’Donohue called ‘anam cara’ (soul-friend) and sub-titled ‘Spiritual Wisdom from the Celtic World’.
This book resides on my bedside table and one I dip into now and again. Its pearls of wisdom, gems of inner-understanding ensures it’s a book that not only has meant a lot to me but continues to do so. In recent weeks some of my friends are going through hardships and I found myself seeking solace and clarity within the pages.
My 3 nominees for day #1 of this challenge are:
- Robbie Cheadle at Robbie’s Inspiration
- Davy D at Inside the Mind of Davy D
- Billy Ray Chitwood at The Final Curtain1
Quick Aside
I’m stunned and very honoured to have been nominated in the Best Pal category of the Bloggers Bash Awards! There are only a few more days to vote until the virtual box closes at midnight on April 30th (BST) so head over to the ballot – there will be lots of familiar names there in a whole host of categories … and towards the end is the Best Pal nominations. Press HERE to vote.
BEST PAL: Which blogger do you want to go to the pub with? Or maybe have dinner with? Who never fails to reply to comments, and has thoughtful things to say? Maybe they encourage the community through weekly challenges or blog parties. A blogger who makes the blog-o-sphere a better place is what makes the Best Pal. (This description courtesy of Bloggers Bash Awards)
Annika Perry 
Congratulations!
Thank you! 😀🌺
Your Welcome!
A beautiful and touching quote, Annika. Thank you for sharing it.
p.s. I totally agree with this, when it comes to you “A blogger who makes the blog-o-sphere a better place is what makes the Best Pal.” Thank you for your support, always. ❤
Ahh…thank you so much, Khaya! 😀❤️ Always a joy to read your posts and share my thoughts. So glad you liked this quote / Blessing! Happy Weekend! 🌺
this is so touching, beautiful blessings…
Definitely, Mihran … the book is interspersed with blessings, full of interesting facts and wisdom in between. Happy Weekend!
God Bless you and a splendid weekend!!
Thank you, Annika, for pointing me to your post and this quote that I very much needed to read. I LOVE it and am going to read it over and over again. Appreciate it very much! A few weeks ago I was on the Bloggers Bash voting page, and I voted for you!!! Good luck to you, my friend. It is a very deserved nomination, and if you won, well, that would be just perfect. I am so thankful that I stumbled upon your blog and have been able to be a part of your world. Have a fabulous weekend; I hope the sun shines brightly for you! Lots of love and a big hug! xo
Tanya, the sun is shining brightly and even more so after reading your lovely comment!!😀 It was a matter of the page falling open at this blessing whilst thinking of a few of my friends going through hardships … and a piece I’ve reread myself many times!
Thank you SO MUCH for voting for me and even more important for your kind and heartfelt words – I feel likewise, it has been a joy to come across your blog and meet here on WP! Love & hugs, Annika xxx ❤️
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What a beautiful blessing Annika and congratulations on your nomination. Richly deserved. I voted for you. xo 🙂
Thank you so much, Miriam! ❤️Your post actually reminded me first about the awards and congratulations for your nomination as well – I headed over at the time and voted for you … then saw my name!! Hope you’re having a lovely week. xxx
Thanks so much Annika and yes, despite a head cold, I’m having a good week. xo
That quote is a real pearl, Annika! I love John O’Donohue’s writings, and this one is no exception – what a blessing!
Dear Helen…what a blessing indeed! Not many I know have heard of John O’Donoghue’s and lovely to come across another ‘fan’. An amazing book that always leaves me pondering.
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Congrats on your nomination, Annika! Thanks for the lovely blessing. It’s one to keep and share often. Hugs xx
The blessing is one of many dotted throughout the book but one I stumbled across when I reached for the book deep in thought! Odd when that happens … seems more than serendipity!
The nomination was such a wonderful surprise!! I’d only gone in to vote for others when I saw my name! 😀❤️
How nice to be surprised like that! Well deserved, Annika! 💕😘
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I love the humanity and beauty of Celtic prayers and blessings. Thank-you so much for sharing your quote! Also, congratulations on your nomination!
Clare, I love how you see the humanity and beauty of their blessings – they have a wonderful timeless quality, of seeing through to our very essence. Amazing!
Thank you so much – it was a moving surprise to be nominated and means a lot to me! 😀
🙂
A beautiful quote Annika. Thank you.
Janice, thank you so much! Something a bit different to start the challenge!
This is a beautiful quote, Annika! Simple yet powerful. I’ve got Anam Cara on my TBR list. I think I may have to move it up a few(!) spots!
Haha! 😀 Julie, it’s astonishing how long those TBR lists become – this is one that should be near the top! I bought the paperback and it lives on my bedside table – one to dip into, other times read longer sections. A timeless blessing/poem that is just a relevant and powerful today as then!❤️
The quote is beautiful, Annika. It inspires and makes us realize that we are not our bodies ❤️
Absolutely, Tina – an unsettling but also uplifting thought! The blessing is very empowering, I find. ❤️
I was over to the awards awhile back. I’m sure I voted for you in this category. Best of Luck!
Ahh…thank you! 😀 There are so many nominations in each category and I became carried away, clicking through on many of the names! Fascinating.
Congratulations on the nomination, Annika! I have voted. Love the quote.
Thank you so much, Jan! 😀 That’s great. xx
I love this song and had no idea he passed! So sad
He passed away just about this time last Friday – incredibly sad and shocking. A musician so full of life and energy. We have his music to remember him by.
I am shocked!
Annika, I was thrilled and honoured by your mention but unfortunately won’t be able to participate in this one due to other commitments. Thank you from every piece of me and I am popping over to put a tick in the box for your nomination.
Davy, I totally understand and realise you have a lot of other commitments … but the thought was there! Thank you so much for your vote – I really appreciate it! 😀
It was deeply appreciated Annika. Hope your weekend is going well.
I love the quote but I loved YOUR quote even better–that you and rules don’t mix well. Yeah! #me2
😀😃 And I nearly didn’t leave that sentence in as I thought I might get in trouble! 😀 We will have to join forces … if we were in school it would be ‘The No Rules Club’!
My final quotation is actually that – a quotation!
Anam Cara is indeed a beautiful book Annika and such a lovely quote to start tge challenge. I have cast my vote and wish you many more. 🌼
Brigid, I am not surprised you know of this book! 😀😀 It is so special and unique – this quote called out to me to be shared which was a strange sensation. Thank you so much for your vote; that means a lot to me. 😀🌺
My all-time favorite book, Annika. It’s like a collection of awesome quotes! Lol. This blessing is beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing it and for bringing a smile to my afternoon. 🙂
Diana, I’m sure you were the one to recommend this book to me … a treasure of uplifting and thought-provoking writing. A sense of calm and clarity descends upon me each times I read from it. Ahh…so happy to bring smiles today! 😀❤️
I sort of remember that, Annika. And I couldn’t be happier that you find this book as lovely as I did. ❤
I feel like your blessing resonated with me, also, Annika, so thank you for sharing. It came in a timely manner. 🙂 Sending lots of love your way. 💓
Lauren, my heart gladdens to hear it came at just the right time for you. I’d written this blessing up a week ago to send to a couple of friends but wanted to share it wider too … it’s deep and strengthening message seems to be needed more than ever! Hugs & love, my friend! ❤️
I’m glad you mentioned the voting. I found you and voted, but I also found others that I know and like in other categories. Fingers crossed for you!
Thank you so much for the vote, Anne! 😀😀 I did exactly the same, followed a link from another blogger and then saw so many in the other categories as well. Even in this Best Pal are quite a few lovely friends from WP … I’m just overjoyed to have been nominated!
Your nomination was a great vote of appreciation. I hope you win.
Thank you for sharing this quote. It’s so inspiring. What a lovely book to have at your bedside for a handy dose of inspiration. ❤
Thank you so much for your lovely message, Debby! 😀 The book gives me calming wisdom when my mind tends to go into a whirlwind …and this blessing is one I came across whilst particularly worried about a couple of friends…so happy to have the opportunity to share it here. Congratulations for the nomination, Debby! Hugs ❤️😀
Understandably so Annika. I keep my Angel Messages book by my bedside for same reasons. And thanks for the congrats, as I congratulate you. It’s just an honor to be nominated, and always exciting to hear who wins. ❤ 🙂
Your quotation certainly got me thinking Annika. Also you are certainly correct in saying that rules and you don’t mix and had me wondering just how many words you can have on a quotation. Rules are there to be broken so keep up the good work and I look forward to tomorrows post.
I have just voted too!
Mike
As you will see, Mike, I’ve made a good job of breaking the ‘rules’ again in today’s post – #2! I’m not sure if there ever is a limit to the length of a quote and this is something I will have to check. I’m so glad you liked the blessing and that it has you thinking … the book is outstanding and one to read slowly, think, savour. Many thanks for your comment and your vote! 😀
What a great challenge and such a gentle quote reflecting a gentle soul. ❤️
Thank you so much for your kind & gentle words! ❤️. The challenge was timely for me as I had all these quotes I wanted to share but not sure what format to take!
Congrats on the well-deserved nomination! I look forward to more of your favourite quotes. 🙂
Thank you so much, Jennifer – a lovely surprise! 😀 Not long to wait until my next quote … and again I’ve gone slightly off the wall.
Ha ha, sounds good to me!
Just what I needed today, Annika! 🙂 xo
I’m happy to hear that, Bette! ❤️
What is it about those Celts? Their ‘blessings’ keep on resounding through the centuries and listen…I’ll take ’em. This one is new to me and really hits home for me right now.
The phrase:’shape of your soul’ is in itself unique.
Thank you for your thoughtful 1st quote day offering, Annika!
Laura, thank you again for nominating me for this – I had a hunger to share some of these quotes and you gave me the perfect opportunity. I realise they quotes are slightly long … hope I won’t get into trouble!!😀
The book is scattered with these blessings and like you say, they resound through the centuries and are as fresh and relevant today as then. This one particularly I hoped would resonate with many (just as it does with me) and so glad it means a lot to you.
My quote for tomorrow is also slightly different … can’t wait to see what you make of it!
Congrats for the awesome nomination!!!
Many thanks, Sarah! 🤗 It was a total surprise and I only realised when I was voting in all the categories.
Thank you for the nomination, Annika. A really lovely poem/blessing that you have shared.
You’re very welcome, Robbie! So glad you liked the poem/blessing and one I’ve wanted to share for a while.
Thank you for a profound sharing Annika, your choice reflects your personality! You have made my morning so pleasant, this is going to stay with me for a long time. May you have all those blessings showered in this quote.
And likewise, Balroop! Thank you so much! 🤗 Profound is definitely the word and one of those poems that reveals something anew on each reading. Yes, it definitely remains with one for a long time – giving one strength and an emotional & spiritual boost! Xx
This quote is a keeper. Thank you for sharing it.
Lori, how true! 😀 It’s in my ‘quote’ file. xx
That’s a lovely quote, Annika. There’s something in there for each of us. 🙂 🙂 You are such an attentive commenter, I can well understand the Best Pals nomination. I spotted it the other day when I was voting in another category, and you got my vote at once. Have a lovely weekend!
First, thank you so much for your vote! 😀 I only spotted my name down a few days ago when I was through voting … a thrilling surprise! Thank you also for your kind and generous words.
The quote is longish but one I felt is relevant to all of us …and different elements of it stand out to me depending on my mood/events during the day. Strange.
That is an amazing blessing. Thanks for sharing it.
One I’ve wanted to share for a while – it is amazing and I glean more with each reading.
I agree. It is wonderful. Have a good day.
Annika, this is such a lovely gift to share. A beautiful, inspiring way to begin the day. Thank you! XO
Thank you so much, Natalie! ❤️ Its a blessing and a book that are close by my side and a joy to share here. Have lovely day. xx
You really do have the gift of brightening the day. I love your gentle and wise spirit!
Thank you, Adrienne! 😀 Bless yo,u for your kind comment … I’m not so sure about the wise, I leave that up to the ancient blessing here!
The description of the award makes it apparent that this nomination is well deserved and thanks for morning does of John O’Donahue. I am going to dig out my book. I had forgotten how much I enjoyed reading from it.
Certain books live by one’s side for a long time before disappearing for a while … I’m glad this reminded you about ‘anam cara’ – there is nothing quite like it! Enjoy re-reading it! 😀
Thank you so much for your generous comment about the nomination – I loved the description for this category (and all of them) so wanted to share it on my post as well.
And what a beautiful pearl of wisdom it is that you have shared Annika.. Thank you, just what I needed to read this morning.
Sending Love and Blessings to light you in your day..
Sue xx ❤
Sue, I’m having a lovely peaceful day … your light and blessings must have found me! ❤️ This blessing is indeed a precious gift to us all and one I have been keen to share – luckily this was the perfect opportunity! Hoping you have a day filled with joy and light too. xxx
Thank you Annika.. A peaceful day all around! ❤
Thank you for sharing this beautiful blessing, Annika. It’s a wonderful way to begin my day.
Congratulations on your nomination! Very well deserved indeed. Going to vote now….
Enjoy your day! ❤
Jill, a joy to share this quote/blessing and so glad it was a good start to your day (which I’ve realised must be very early for you). 😀
Thank you so much for voting … I really appreciate it. A blissfully sunny day here and my heart is smiling … wishing you lots of joy today. ❤️
LOL! Yes, I’m at the day job @ 6:00 a.m. 🙂 I’m happy you had a nice day, Annika. ❤
Congratulations Annika, you are a great pal. And lovely words x
Thank you so much, Shey … likewise! 😀 Reckon we’d have a ball in the pub! Have a great day and hope the sun reaches you! 🌼
Bless you Annika, you manage to make a challenge into a deep, beautiful and uplifting journey. I have read your quote several times and feel warm and cherished and will save the quote for days when the soul and spirit feel low.
As to the challenge, it is a wonderful one and I look forward to your two further challenge posts.
Have also been in and voted for you as I really think you deserve it.
Miriam
Miriam, your comments are like rays of sunshine and as you write of the quote, so I feel reading your thoughts. I’m glad the quote will be saved for low days … the purpose of the book by my bedside and it reiterates how to adjust my vision of the world and my place in it. The next post is already ready for tomorrow (I had a busy few hours yesterday asfter seeing the challenge!) and just Saturday’s to write … I hope you enjoy them all!
Many thanks for voting and for your final sentence – I really appreciate it! 🌺❤️😀
Annika, this is a beautiful blessing, and just what I need at the moment. Thank you for posting it. I’m going to save it for when I need this reminder.
Shari, it warms my heart to know that this blessing helps you … It is wonderfully uplifting. For the past week I’ve wanted to post it but couldn’t find the right opportunity and then the challenge was jus perfect! I think of you often and pop by your blog. Wishing you well. Hugs xx ❤️
Thank you, Annika. I’ll return to blogging, just not ready yet.