Be present and kind and open to all without judgment. Give to strangers in need without a reason and love myself.

That I will get through these past surgeries and resume my active lifestyle. Put all of the COVID loneliness behind and resume making a difference for one person each day. To be joyful and present in everything I do.

Simply to be present, breath deeply and notice the suchness of life.

Ah, where do I begin in a world that seems to be turned inside out right now. Joy is only possible in the present moment and I have allowed the trifecta of disasters (political, environmental and COVID) to take me out of the present moment. The “them and us” feeling that is never healthy, nor joyful. I am working on that one.

Someone always loved me. Be it a family member, a friend or lovers gone by but I always knew that I could call someone and feel cared about. I had a big family and several are gone but I still talk to them and feel their love and embrace. I am blessed.

Early in the morning. Often before the sun peaks to say hi. And the birds are chirping outside my window. I love the luxury and the quiet beginning of a new day. I try and reflect on everything and everyone that I am grateful for. And focus on Joy. I enjoy the season, a cup of hot coffee or tea and do a meditation with a Dharma group. Then some exercises, a healthy breakfast and off to my office.

Thank you Eric for your beautiful words, mind and heart.

Eric, I thank you for writing this. I am reflecting on the mastery of your self-knowledge and spiritual insight. It is both enriching and humbling. The eloquence of your writing will be the basis of hope and reflection for me today. I will indeed read your book. You are an amazing soul. Thank you again for sharing some of your life with us..

Here, here. Well said Stella. I am using this month to do something for someone every day. Whether it is visit with someone going through a rough patch or bring flowers to another. These acts are acts of kindness and giving thanks.