Reading Marianne Williamson’s “A Return to Love” was a turning point for me. I was raised to believe in a God who punished those falling short, and I always fell short. To be shown that the Divine is all about love for everyone and everything, including me, changed my life.

What a great question! My biggest roadblock is the belief that I’m not worthy of an extraordinary life. Who am I to deserve such blessings, to shine so brightly in the world? On a cognitive level, I know this belief is false, but deep inside, it is still a wound that needs healing.

Visiting gratefulness.org has become part of my daily morning ritual. Each morning, I write in the online gratitude journal 3 things I am grateful for. Some days, I’m tempted to say I don’t have time today. But that’s exactly when I need to visit the most! I am grateful for the community here and the daily inspiration provided. Thank you!

“When You Wish Upon a Star” is the song that comes to mind. I love the Linda Rondstadt version with the Nelson Riddle orchestra. It reminds me to keep my heart connected to my dreams.

A few days ago, I mentioned to John, my beloved, a favorite food I used to enjoy years ago. Today, when he came home from buying the newspapers, in his hand he held a gift… my favorite food! Such an act of love, and I am so grateful…

I already shared today’s quote on Facebook. Later, I plan on sharing a loving kindness meditation on social media. We need to generously sow the seeds of love and kindness in the coming days…

I’m grateful to have learned…
that challenges carry blessings.
that love flows in a never-ending circle.
that within me beats a joyful, resilient heart.

My boyfriend and I have spent the last 6 weeks struggling with Covid. But always there are blessings. We have found a deeper connection to each other as we lean on each other. For that I am deeply blessed. Merry Christmas everyone!

Walking in nature, dancing, singing, the smiles of small children

It has taken me a lifetime to realize that doubt is the doorway to faith. As another writer posted here, faith is like a muscle that needs to be flexed. Doubt provides the opportunity. But until I made that connection, I ran in fear from the doubts that surrounded me. Little by little, I turn toward the doubt and step across its threshold, accompanied by faith.

With gratitude, I will go about my day, each moment a precious blessing. Whether large or small, it is in the moments that we live our lives. May we be thankful for them all!

When my boyfriend and I dance around the living room. He smiles, I smile, and we surrender to the silly joy of the moment.

I have noticed that when I let down my defenses and take responsibility for my actions, those around me soften because they’ve been acknowledged. Peaceful resolution becomes possible as our hearts open toward each other.

It is not too late, you are not too old. You are right on time, and you are stronger than you know.

From the window of my urban apartment, I can see the vast expanse of sky. The day is foggy, heavy with gray clouds. Still, in this moment, I am reminded of the openness available in every moment, if only we pause long enough to become aware.

Jimmy, the porter who works in my building. He has a hard job, cleaning, lugging trash, etc. I know he has to take 3 trains on his daily commute. Yet, he always offers a smile and a friendly hello. Jimmy takes such pride in his work, and he shares his light with all those around him. Thank you Jimmy. You are an inspiration.

Today is my first day as part of this community. I am so grateful to have been guided here, and so grateful to be welcomed. I can tend my path by remembering it is a privilege to live my purpose each day. To say to myself and others, not “Look what I HAVE to do, “ but “Look what I GET to do.” Many blessings to all…