Challenges are teaching me to say no to what keeps me small and resigned, and more determined to go for what makes me a happier, more open and more joyful person.

I am visiting friends and family in New Jersey. Kind of running away from an overwhelming, discouraging situation where I currently live.

I am nurturing myself, and allowing myself to feel delighted and loved and at ease with people I love, and who love me. Took a glorious, early morning bike ride today with my sister, after not seeing family for over a year. Am loving it!

Two important discoveries. In 1st Grade, I discovered that books and reading can open an exciting and entertaining world. What was a cultural dissonance though, was learning to read with Dick and Jane, even though I was born and in lived in remote, rural Paraguay! So much emphasis on European, white values and culture, now that reflect on it.

The other that continues to be source of nurturance and life for me is the natural world: trees, plants and animals. I notice them and they are a comfort and stability always. Growing up in the wilds of Paraguay, and being immersed in the outdoors, my love for and connection to the natural world is a comforting, central part of my being. Especially high trees: I remember my many walks through the woods as a child, looking up at the protective green canopy way above me,

Just to remember it is a good idea. I always find it helpful to know when someone is struggling, and when someone takes the risk to make themselves vulnerable in sharing what they are struggling with.

In some situations in my daily life it is easier for me to respond with kindness, especially with children and young people.
In other situations it is harder to respond with kindness. Oh my goodness, yes! I have my own needs for kindness and consideration, as well. If I am frustrated with the drama and chaos around me, I have to take care of myself. Even if I know that they are facing their own battle or struggle, I find that I do not always have the resources within to respond with cheerfulness and care. So I end up closing myself off so as not to get overwhelmed.

My health first and foremost. So far I have energy and a strong body, for which I am thankful everyday. I will be biking and swimming today, I hope. I have a stable job, working with delightful, diverse students, and a cheerful, hard-working school staff. I have the summers available to explore the world! I wake up with bird songs, I have flowers in my garden, and basil growing. I have friends who care about me.I will be visiting my sister, my nieces and my two great-nephews tomorrow. First time since the pandemic, over a year ago.

At first, I found this a strange question. but as I write, and name all the different activities I am able to do, I see the value in being very specific: There are so many activities I can do, and here is an opportunity to be very specific.

I treasure and appreciate that I have a strong working body at the age of 69. What parts of my body? All of it, as many have said: my legs, arms, torso. My legs, lungs and torso are strong enough for me to hike in the White Mountains. Not as fast as I used to do, but still can do. My knees are cooperating with the ups and downs. Thank you, knees! Oh, my feet as well! Healthy and attractive after years of going barefoot. My hands too. This morning I picked up my recorder and played “Morning has broken”– I can move my fingers with agility. Also good strong hands to garden, as I have done a lot in the past week.

This has turned out to be a good, short appreciation writing….

In the past year, I realize I am capable of doing things that are difficult. Such as during the pandemic: having to suddenly pack up my belongings, find a new place to live, and create a physically nurturing space for me to live in, all in the space of one month.

Also: realizing that what may seem and feel discouraging and impossible one day, can change to feeling hopeful and energizing the next day. My feelings and emotions change from day to day, and sometimes from minute to minute. Guess it’s taken me a lifetime to realize this.