“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...

“The light flashing out the corner of your eye; the colored orbs like clusters of grapes hanging in the trees; the pale figure leading you out of the woods; the cloud suddenly a spaceship: did you really see any of these things? Was your mind playing tricks or was your imagination running away on you? Was it a late night or too early a morning when eyes can unintentionally deceive?  A so lucid dream that you thought it real. Where do you...

“Have you ever been “at a loss for words?” The sentence itself carries an old style of speaking, doesn’t it? It’s a figure of speech: you can’t translate it word for word, but you understand it because its meaning has been explained to you or used in a context that you can appreciate. Perhaps you haven’t been able to find the words to use in a sensitive situation. At someone’s funeral for instance or during a heated conversation or while...

“Vitality denotes “physical or mental vigour, an energy where there is power to continue in existence, to live and grow.” Strength of being seems to accompany vigour for it also implies a courageous state of staying the course when circumstances are challenging. Though winds of adversity may blow, you in your life energy, persist – beyond survival to flourishing. Vigour leaps over stagnation, inertia, indifference, boredom, despair and demands...