According to Joan Baez ‘Action is the antidote to despair’. As I take imperfect action and responsibility for my challenges, I am more connected and committed to life. More humbled as well. Self-compassion and care helps, as does reaching out and not trying to do it all alone.

I seem to have taken that approach today, before reading the question. And, curiously, so far so good!

I am not sure I could bring few expectations as a regular practice, but it us worth trying. Could be a whole new relaxed freedom, openness and ease, particularly with more challenging and uncomfortable experiences. It might also lead to more curiosity, openness, understanding and kindness. towards self and others. ????????…

I am not doing great right now at cherishing life’s journey. Will hold the question of how to do so in prayer. Perhaps slowing down and savouring the moments and small blessings more is a good start.

practice, practice, practice …

a channel of peace …

Imagining that this is the last time I will ever feel this way, I choose to hold my thoughts and feelings with kindness, and to imagine being held in a sea of love. I am feeling triggered by a conversation I just had, so will ask that we both be held in that greater loving kindness and carry on with the next steps of my day.

On a good day I see my life as a mystery, a dance, a river or a lovely big canvas to engage with and paint on / with.

When I asked my wise Aunt whether I should marry my now husband, she did not miss a beat and said an enthusiastic yes! I took her advice and am very grateful I did. The mother of a high school boyfriend encouraged me to get confirmed in my own church. The mother of a university boyfriend introduced me to Virginia Woolf and Alice Walker, and an ongoing journey of being my own person in the world.

Remember to stop and pause. ????????…

Like Kevin, I am deeply grateful to the demo.gratefulness.org team and contributors for this website, the daily question and all who share your reflections. This community offers connection and courage that help me to keep showing up, doing my best and making the best of each day.

Thanks Mary. A beautiful post. I appreciate the reminder of self-compassion and the work of Kristen Neff. Also your trio – self-compassion, mindfulness and gratefulness. ???????? Warmly, KC

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Thanks for your honest response to this question. Wishing you a softening and opening to gentle energy and a relaxed ease … Warmly, KC

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Thanks Anna, Yes indeed, the prayer of St. Francis is my inspiration. Apparently the words were attributed to St. Francis but there is no record of his having said them. They were first found in the past hundred years, written by anonymous. That said, I value the words as something to aspire to …????????????…

Beautiful Ben. Thanks for your thoughtful answer.

Beautiful Michael. I am curious, how you teach young people to separate hard work and stress. Is that possible? Warmly, KC

Thank you dear Ose. Such a beautiful reminder. Warmly, KC

Ah yes. Awareness. Practice, kindness and a ton of patience too. Much love to you this day… Warmly, KC