Slowing down or staying still. Grounding and focusing on the present and what is within my sphere of influence (ie. very little!). Practicing gratefulness. Doing what I can. Praying. Trusting the great mystery …

As I practice returning to and staying grounded / centred in and with my own experience, truth, challenges, needs, I am more able to offer deep respect, understanding and kindness to others. My aging father and family are my best teachers now. There are many invitations daily.

Practicing being grounded, still and deep listening to understand …

A guided meditation, yoga, walking or doing something physical, taking the first baby step, setting a timer to begin, asking for help and / or support, or simply accepting the feeling of powerlessness and trusting that it will pass… eventually it does.

My desire and need to trust, allow, surrender, let go and let things flow. A part of me aspires to a more disciplined, orderly, structured, methodical, goal oriented approach to many things. Without the more casual, relaxed part I would be one miserable human! 🐌

Thank you for this beautiful question and thoughtful answers. I will make time to be more mindful of the trees in my life today …

The storms of life are humbling me daily. With that is an increasing sense of vulnerability, gratitude and a desire for peace, quiet, simplicity and true human connection.

On a good day, I believe there is a universal rhythm, beat and flow that we are each invited and quietly encouraged to attune to. I am blessed at times to feel connected with this universal heartbeat, in the company of others, and we silently dance together. This is a rare and precious dance for which I am grateful, when it happens.

Today I am praying for the courage to show up as best I can and act.

Standing rooted, connected and open, whole in / to the present as it is; showing, committing and engaging fully as the humble human I am called to be. Accepting, trusting, allowing life, people, things to be as they are.

A discomfort or aversion to strong emotional responses, whether my own or others.

How satisfying it is to weed the garden …

Spring bursting forth with full-bodied beauty, enthusiasm and great gusto!

A lot! Unconscious habits of anger, judgement, resentment, shame, an outdated ‘poor me’ narrative and getting caught / stuck there… also a whole bunch of physical stuff from the past – paper, books, clothing… time to let go, let go, let go … Thanks for a great question, and all for your thoughtful reflections 🙏🏻

Thanks Michele!

Kevin, Thank you so much for sharing each of these. I generally find the ‘how can I be of service’ question daunting and overwhelming. It shuts me down. The quotes You share are so helpful to reframe the question in a positive, practical and life giving direction. Words are so powerful, 🙏🏻

Judith, Thank you so much for sharing these thoughtful words, and for introducing Gladys Taber. Her writing sounds kind and gentle! Warmly, KC

Thank you for mentioning the challenge of asking for help from others. I find that a tough one!

Right! 🌞🤗

Yes!!!!

Beautiful. Thank you! 🙏