“How unfortunate that we have been conditioned and culturally influenced to reinforce that we know everything – or just about everything when interacting with others. The idea of admitting not knowing can give you a feeling of weakness, vulnerability, inadequacy, naivety, even stupidity thanks to the idea that being perceived as all-knowing is a strength, a competitive edge in our society. In truth, knowing what you don’t know gives you entry...

“Do you have an ever-present quota running in your mind? This many steps to take, multiple errands to run, a few calls to make, two dozen cookies to bake, a driveway to shovel, a partner to speak to, a week’s bills to pay, … If you do, then move out of your mind into your heart where you’ll find there is no quota. Nothing to reach, solve, add, conclude, or question. Simply, a sanctuary of love where being is all it takes to arrive at rest:...

“Philosopher David Whyte describes friendship as “a mirror to presence and a testament to forgiveness. Friendship not only helps us see ourselves through another’s eyes but can be sustained over the years only with someone who has repeatedly forgiven us for our trespasses as we must find it in ourselves to forgive them in turn. A friend knows our difficulties and shadows and remains in sight, a companion to our vulnerabilities more than our...

“Just when you felt you had it all together – that pregnant pause of perfect balance, soothing serenity, magical space between thoughts with no interruption or distraction, it suddenly melted away. You used all your mind and soul to bring the pause back, but it eluded you like a drop sinking down a deep well. You asked yourself, “Will I feel this exquisite again? How do I bring it back?” A small, loving voice, light as a feather, arose out of...

“Your friend is late getting to the concert, so you tell them not to worry, you’ll hold a place for them. There’s usually a crowd for brunch at a popular restaurant; you tell the family you’ll go on ahead to hold a spot in line. These things you do automatically out of care: making sure everyone is accommodated not just you. Taking this further, you also hold space for someone when you take time for them without them knowing about it. Perhaps a...