Love has no agenda …

With the holidays, we tend to feel our emotions on a deeper level. And over the Thanksgiving Day weekend, I felt more loss. During my divorce, I lost my appetite, which was enormously telling. I felt the sweetness of pain, and the peace of knowing, along with my physical response to the loss. I filtered incoming and outgoing data through the most authentic version of love I know. Still, I missed some emotions yet to surface, tears yet to fall.

I was a little surprised, a lot grateful. And I’m going to sit with my feelings some more. I’m going to feel the depth and the sanctity of what it means to be human, with the privilege and awareness of choice. I’m reminded to tune in to my feelings, with each day, each breath. And I’m going to pay special attention to what the holidays surface that I have yet to feel.

Life is way cool. I am way grateful.

And I wish you all good things in love. They are, indeed, ours to feel and live. And the holidays serve them on a silver platter. Let’s see them for what they are. GOOD.

Love smiles on you,… More

The candy dish is familiar — it’s always on the front desk and full of root beer barrels. Marie is the receptionist; her dad is dying, and he has been dying for a long time. He loves root beer barrels. Knowing this, his nurse brings him a bag every week, enough to share with his daughter. Her eyes sparkle wet tears as she explains.

Tradition comforts us and makes us feel grounded — regardless of what’s caving in around us. It represents caring. Whether it’s pizza on Friday nights or an annual celebration, it reminds us that somebody stands with us. We feel known and appreciated.

Celebrating a tradition with somebody says “I love you” or “you’re important to me” … with actions, rather than words. Those who know me well, join me in stretching my arms out to take a deep breath and re-present myself.

Traditions remind us to show up!

Granted, YOU can get lost in an elaborate tradition. If you keep it simple, you’re more apt to stay present and satisfy its purpose.

Let’s say it’s his birthday: If you eat dinner at your favorite neighborhood restaurant and surprise him with a gift on his pillow, honoring him is the main event.… More

When we align our words and our behavior with the truth written on our hearts, we know peace. And the outside is as beautiful as the inside.… More

In stillness, there is only now, only here, only enough.… More