December is often a month when we look back on the year and reflect on all that has happened: what we thought the year would bring and what actually transpired. I think I speak for all of us when I say that no one anticipated a worldwide pandemic in 2020.

Most of us thought COVID-19 would last a few weeks, but it has turned into months. As we live through this historical event; the way we live has been drastically changed.

 For me, the year started like the one before: at the helm of several luxury magazines as publisher, a job that I absolutely loved. I would never have dreamt a few months later that the market would take such a drastic financial hit, and I found myself feeling lost and a bit confused, asking myself, “how did this happen?” I felt a sense of fear, wondering what would come next. I started to grieve for the friends I made in the industry as I watched how they—and all of us—struggled to keep our heads above water, all the while praying for an end to the pandemic and the ability to move on to the “new normal.”

And now, as I reflect back, I see some of the positive effects of the virus: how I was able to slow down and enjoy more time with my children. I planted the garden that I kept putting off, started fostering dogs and kittens again because I now had the time to commit to it. The gyms were closed, so I started my day with mediation.  Soon, the fear started to subside and a new feeling of calm washed over me.

I questioned the universe, asking “what is next for me?” and the answer came organically through the pages of Natural Awakenings. Buying this magazine has brought together my professional experience as a publisher and my personal passion for fitness, clean eating and spirituality.

 There is a quote that comes to mind by the poet Ralph Waldo Emerson: “When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.” It’s so simple really. I can either focus on the darkness or find the light and beauty in the stars. I choose the light.

I am very excited for the chance to take a new path, and I look forward to making this journey with you.

 In Gratitude,

 Shae Marcus