Oprah says farewell.

The Queen of the Talk Show has hung up her crown. (She’s also staying in her PJ’s all day today!) There was no huge fan fare, no celebrity guests or giveaways, just Oprah and millions of us watching her give her heart-felt thanks and gratitude for our love and support over the years.

After 25 years and 4561 shows, Oprah says goodbye to us. She farewelled us with grace and love, and like a loving parent sending us off to stand alone, she left us with her final words of wisdom, hoping we will take them to heart. She also gave us her personal email: Oprah[at]Oprah[dot]com.

I grew up with Oprah. She was a regular visitor in my house for over half of my life. And though I didn’t watch every single show, her words and the things I learned from her and about myself will remain with me always. Like her millions of fans, I felt connected with the people who shared their stories, and with Oprah herself. And like millions I realized I wasn’t alone in the world. I am going to miss her show. This is truly the end of an era. Yet all good things must come to end. But don’t feel sad. Her show may be over, but Oprah will still be around. I mean, she’s got her OWN network, so there will still be plenty of Oprah goodness to go around.

Here is my favorite quote from the show:

“You have to know what sparks the light in you so you in your own way can illuminate the world.” ~ Oprah

What was your favorite quote or lesson from yesterday?

You are the love of my life.

You know how they say the Universe conspires to bring you the things you desire? (The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho) I believe this to be true. (My Youngling is the most precious and beloved gift I have ever wished for and received.)

I believe that family may agree to disagree, love you flaws and all, and be your biggest fans and supporters. Family believes in you even when you don’t believe in yourself, and are there to pick you up off the cobblestones when you can’t walk anymore. (Did I ever tell my sisters just how fabulous they really are? What would I ever do without you? You, dear sisters, have been my rock and know my heart best.)

I also believe that true and dear friends (who I also consider my family) come into your life to help you grow and broaden your horizons. They perform unexpected acts of service that come from the heart with no desire or expectation for recompense. They may even help you to sprout wings you didn’t know you had and fly. (Thank you friends for being the extended family I always hoped for but never dared to dream I could have.) They also share great books with you. (Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert and Connected Parenting by Jennifer Kolari)

Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

I also believe that there are people who touch your life only briefly but have profound meaning and messages to share. Today someone I will always remember, though I may never see them again said something to me that changed my life. (In regards to how my Youngling feels about me: “You are the love of her life.” Thank you for that, because I never thought of it that way. You are an amazing teacher.)

I believe I have been truly, truly blessed and fortunate in my life. So today I wanted to share one of my favorite quotes with you, dear reader. A quote from one of the people on the list of things I believe in. May it be as profound for you as it was for me, and make as much of a difference for you in your journey as it has made for me today.

“Do the thing you fear, and the death of fear is certain.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

I believe that today was truly a wonderful day. What do you believe in?