Thinking Thoughts

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I recently came across a video of a woman tending to an injured bumblebee. This simple act was so sweet and gentle. It illustrates the incredible capacity of human beings to express deep love and compassion, both for ourselves, and even the tiniest of creatures, in the smallest of ways.

It caused me to reflect upon the wars and conflicts taking place across our globe and the acts of genocide and hatred being perpetrated every minute of every day. This is also something humans are capable of: destruction, pain, greed and violence.

I can feel helpless and hopeless when I think about this reality: when I witness the suffering taking place. And then I remember that my role is to be a bee-keeper; to focus my energy on identifying the things that I can influence and change. To keep hope alive.

I can embody love and peace in my own life. I can stand up and speak out against injustice. I can lift up others and allocate my resources towards furthering the greater good. I can act with respect and tenderness in my own daily encounters. And although I will never understand why the world works as it does, or why humans choose such diametrically opposing pathways, I do understand this simple truth. I have the power to choose who I want to be and how I want to show up in this life, in each and every moment, and so do you.

Thinking Thoughts

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I am starting to finally grasp that my friendships will never be uniform or consistent in their offerings. Some are very specific: we enjoy doing a particular activity together. Some are more complex: I can share my innermost thoughts and feelings. It is important to see each friend for who they are and accept what they can offer. Some people go deep and others tread shallow. Some are for a season and some are for a lifetime. They are all valuable and important. They all have something to offer.

Joy Journal

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Joy Journal #34: March 2, 2024

Today, I went hiking with my sisters. It was a beautiful afternoon as we climbed up through the winding trails, surrounded by cedar trees, talking about our childhood memories and hopes for the future. There is something incredibly special about people who have known you your whole life: who share your life experiences and understand the complexity of family dynamics.

As we emerged at the summit, I looked across the horizon, admiring the Pacific ocean, and I felt a sense of awe and deep gratitude. We slowly descended the mountain and, after we were done, we stopped in at Mosi where we shared a delicious range of freshly baked goods (so good!) and herbal tea. It was the perfect end to a wonderful afternoon spent together. #JoyBlogging

Imposter Syndrome: Reshma Saujani

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On May 21, at Smith’s 145th Commencement, Reshma Saujani, the gender equality activist and author said to the graduates, “People ask me all the time: how do I overcome imposter syndrome?” “And honestly, I’m done answering that question. Because here’s the thing: imposter syndrome isn’t a syndrome at all — it’s a scheme.”

Saujani, an attorney and founder of Girls Who Code and Moms First, questioned the notion that to achieve equality, women must adopt “tips and tricks” for individual self-improvement. “It’s never really been about whether we’re qualified enough, or smart enough, or prepared enough,” said Saujani—the first Indian American woman to run for U.S. Congress. “Instead, it’s always been about the political, the financial, the cultural barriers that are designed to keep us out of those rooms in the first place.”

Joy Journal

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Joy Journal #33: March 1, 2024

This afternoon after work, I was tired and grouchy and fed up. It had been a long week and I felt low. But as I looked out my window, I spotted the sun making an appearance after several wet days of grey and rain. My little white dog gazed up at me expectedly with his black eyes and twitching nose; and I knew that I needed to take him out.

Sometimes the body tells us one thing but the mind knows the truth. Even though I wanted to collapse on the couch, I knew that I needed to get out and move my body to feel better. I knew that my dog deserved to stretch his legs and exercise after waiting for me patiently all day.

And do you know what? After being out in the fresh air for two minutes, my spirits started to lift. I walked for an hour in my neighbourhood in the late afternoon sunlight; and when I returned home, it was still light outside. I realized that the days are getting longer. Spring is really on its way. What an incredible gift. I am so glad that I did not miss it. #JoyBlogging

Something to Inspire

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Author, Alex Aster, provides simple and actionable tips about writing your first book in this short clip. It found it to be pretty inspiring so I thought I would share it with you.

@alex.aster

My tips on writing a book! I was inspired by @melissamorganauthor booktok writingtips writinghelp authorsoftiktok authortok

♬ original sound – Alex Aster

Watch List: Criminal UK

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I am a huge fan of British drama. They have a unique ability to build multidimensional characters and explore the complexity of the human experience, using both grit and compassion. I was absolutely blown away by the new series on Netflix called Criminal: UK. Every episode is a brilliant gem that stands on its own; and together, the pieces weave a multi-layered series that reveal life behind the veil of Scotland Yard.

Something to Inspire

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Photo by Hiu1ebfu Hou00e0ng on Pexels.com

“Kindness comes from kin, highlighting the fundamental truth of our interdependence. Kindness connects us to the human family. A universal quality, kindness nourishes the heart, heals isolation, and brightens our lives. It sees the potential for good in all and serves as a potent guide for collective transformation.”

~ Excerpted from Your Heart Was Made For This by Oren Jay Sofer

Something to Inspire

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Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Pexels.com

If someone in your family tree was trouble,
A hundred were not:

The bad do not win—not finally,
No matter how loud they are.

We simply would not be here
If that were so.

You are made, fundamentally, from the good.
With this knowledge, you never march alone.

~ Excerpt from “A House Called Tomorrow” by Alberto Rios

Joy Journal

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Joy Journal #32: January 7, 2024

My friend Mary agreed to join me for a day hike up island today. We set off for Mystic Beach, which is located a few hours up island. It is a part of the Juan de Fuca Trail. After arriving in the parking lot, we wandered through stunning, old growth forest for about an hour until we emerged upon a pristine beach. The sky was open and blue. The air was crisp and fresh. We sat upon a log and enjoyed the view with our kombucha, hummus and cut veggies, as the waves crashed in front of us.

After making our way back along the trail, we stopped in at Shirley Delicious for lunch. We enjoyed beautiful, fresh sandwiches on house made focaccia and vegetable soup. It was warming and tasty. I am filled with gratitude after sharing a beautiful day of laughter, conversation and time in nature with my dear friend. #JoyBlogging

“Sacred Exhaustion” by Jeff Foster

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Your tiredness has dignity to it.
Do not rush to pathologize it, or push it away, for it may contain great intelligence, even medicine.
You have been on a long journey from the stars, friend.
Bow before your tiredness now; do not fight it any longer.
There is no shame in admitting that you cannot go on. Even the courageous need to rest.
For a great journey lies ahead. And you will need all of your resources.
Come, sit by the fire of Presence.
Let the body unwind; drop into the silence here.
Forget about tomorrow, let go of the journey to come, and sink into this evening’s warmth.
Every great adventure is fuelled by rest at its heart.
Your tiredness is noble, friend, and contains healing power… if you would only listen…