The more I am able to be a good friend to myself, the more I am able to be a good friend to others. The poem ‘Please call me by all my true Names’ by Thich Nhat Hanh reminds me to be as honest and truthful with my self as I can – the good, bad and ugly, and to bring that honesty, awareness and patience to those I meet. This is the theory. The practice is breath by breath …

Longing seems to be like an inner fire that draws, informs, comforts, guides and companions me on an uncertain and unpredictable journey. It is like a quiet inner compass that seems pretty darn accurate, when / as I take the time to truly listen. It often takes courage, faith, patience and equanimity to heed it’s call. Today I ate chocolate instead ????

Being with dear friends in a warm condo overlooking a still, cold, snowy ski hill on Winter Solstice. With lights low, we passed around and read Coyote Solstice, a Thomas King picture story about a small gathering of animals and a young girl deep in the forest, sharing an unexpected encounter and a simple meal…

The endless beauty of nature and the natural world. Human created beauty as well, in so many sizes, shapes and forms … the bright, warm sun is streaming in my window now. Hmmm ????????????????…

Peace be with you… when necessary use words…

My dear mother, my guardian angel aunt, and my friend Heather, who I did not know well. They gave me a lifetime of questions and experiences to learn, grow and serve from; the gift of unconditional presence, acceptance and love; and the modelling of courage in the face of insurmountable life challenges and setbacks.

Trust more.

Practice writing, doing art, dancing, singing, celebrating, connecting, sharing … smiling a lot. Opening up. Surrendering to what is. Enjoying, embracing, sharing and celebrating the moments a whole lot more! ….

True, loyal presence.

Practice being more tender with myself, and allowing myself to be touched by tenderness from the people and world around me. Then, offering the same ????????????????????????????????????????????‍♀️????????????????‍♀️…

What beautiful reflections???????? I will take more time with grace before meals, and practice more mindfully considering the many sources and hands which have brought the ingredients to my hands and body. I guess that includes more mindful habits around shopping and food preparation as well …

Thank you Ose. ‘Longing …expresses the inner resonance if the call of something true…’ Yes! ????????…

Francine Marie, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and authentic words. A ‘multi layered’ mystery, so far beyond understanding. Yes… ????????????

Great metaphor! ????

Such a thoughtful way to describe the journey. Thank you!

Thanks Barbara. I was not familiar with E.O. Wilson, and just listened to his TED talk – Advice to a young Scientist. Such a wise and thoughtful gentleman. That tussle, between self preservation and altruism does indeed seem to be at the root of forgiveness. Such a journey it is, to find and form new and deeper roots than the old stories and patterns that so often shape us. What a blessing it is to keep showing up, practicing and learning as we go! ????????…

Thanks Neil’s. What a beautiful story! Attitude indeed! ????????????

Yes! 🙂

🙂