"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." ~ Aristotle
I saw a stunning sight in my Sanibel garden one night. It was this plant with yellow leaves, holding light from above and glowing golden and bright. The contrast of light in the darkness looked strong, beautiful, and hopeful. It lifted my spirit and encouraged me.
Today is the first day after the winter solstice. Yesterday was the shortest day and the longest, darkest night. We've passed that and turned a corner.
Let's always look for the light in times of darkness in our personal lives, in our country, and in the world. Often we have to do more than just look for light and signs of hope. We have to be light in the world.
Let's live by our highest principles now, shining brightly our respect and compassion for all people, our yearning for equality and justice for all, and our passionate love and reverence for all creation. Those are some of my principles. Identify, express, and live by yours.
John Muir said, "In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." If you can, go into nature in some way today. Let your soul be stirred by the order, wisdom, beauty, and strength of nature.
You are far more powerful and courageous than you yet realize. Keep up, or start, a daily smiling practice and graciously learn to love yourself, just as you are.
More than enough,
Charlene
HOPE: Through each passage and season may you trust the goodness of life. - from The Twelve Gifts of Birth
