I was very lucky in many ways to grow up in the New Zealand country side which is truly beautiful. However because of how very remote our home was at the time I chose to Home School during my high school years.

My biggest friend during this time was my very dear horse, Holly, who I spent many long hours with every day, rain or shine, riding and later walking alongside her when her arthritis got to bad for me to ride her. Looking back, I think I can truly say she was the very first being who made me aware of how beautiful and privileged we are to live on this earth. She made me thankful for simple things like a full moon on a summers day, the wind sweeping through the tree tops and the eagles flying up in the blue sky. On the 22nd of February 2011, the day of the Tragic Christchurch earthquake which claimed many lives, my horse Holly passed away.

For a couple of weeks I felt quite emotional, I was very sad because I missed her and felt alone without my friend.

At this time I started reading the secret, the teachings helped me see that life must go on. It made me realize that the universe had opened up an opportunity for me to start working towards my dream of becoming an international athlete in the sport of swimming.

However, becoming aware of the path that I could now follow, I was left to wonder: How would I do this and Where would I go?

I needed to live close to a place where I could train as well as being with a good coach to help me reach the top. I knew one of my former coaches would be able to help me, but he lived a long way away in America. I decided to write him a letter explaining my situation and ask him if he could send me programs to follow in New Zealand.

A couple of weeks went by and I used The Secret daily to imagine what it would be like to be able to train twice a day and how strong I would become as an athlete.

What happened next was more than I could ever hope for. My former coach was back in New Zealand coaching at the best pool in the country where the facilities were world class. In his email he told me he would love to help me work towards my dream.

Today, three years later, I am still swimming with the man who was once my former coach but who is now my current coach and mentor. My progress in the sport has been huge and I have moved up from 200th to 20th in the country. I have also found a well-paid job as a swim teacher where I am rewarded daily by seeing others improve and enjoy the freedom of moving and being in the water.

I am truly thankful for everything the universe has provided for me in my new life. I am on an amazing journey and I truly love it.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!