“It seems to rise unexpectedly: a sense of lightness upon hearing the birds singing; a sense of wonder touching the petals of a flower; a sense of inward laughter when you’ve done something silly; a sense of resonance when in deep conversation; a sense of warmth while watching a young family playing in the park. Yet did you not experience these things before? Of course: there have always been birds, and flowers, personal missteps, conversations...

“If you can be anything, be yourself. If you can do anything, serve others. If you can dream anything, dream big. If you can feel anything, feel love. If you can see anything, see beauty. If you can hear anything, hear harmonies. If you can say anything, say simply. If you can understand anything, understand others. If you can learn anything, learn compassion. If you can create anything, create peace. If you can offer anything, offer kindness....

“You do not have to respond if the argument escalates. You do not have to defend yourself if the accusation has no merit. You don’t have to participate if you have to take a side. You do not have to go if the destination is not to your liking. You don’t have to buy something if you don’t want it in the first place. Being forced is not pleasant; wanting is. Give yourself permission to say “No” when a feeling of force, intimidation or threat...

“In the midst of upheaval, uncertainty and challenging circumstances, the rising sun peaks through the blinds and signals the birth of a beautiful day. The mist is rising in the distance, the sky a clear baby blue. No clouds dot the horizon, and you can see this panorama unfolding well beyond the horizon. The trees have begun their colourful dance of yellow, orange and red unfolding but there is no inkling of cold. In fact, the warmth of Father...

“No one likes to be told what to do whether they are two or 90 years old. You may be seeing things and witnessing circumstances that are painful: that you wish to change or improve. Yes, do send intentions to those in these situations but try to refrain from instructing, telling, lecturing, convincing the other party what to do and how to do it. If anything, who and how you are will convince them that following your lead may be an effective...