I am trying to honor impressions I get about the posts I should write.  And so I share the following as it is happening in real time, right now, today.

I have just been reminded of the importance of understanding that challenges are truly a part of our mortal experience.  It is what we think and do as a result of these challenges that makes the difference.

I woke up this morning feeling extremely irritable.  It was compounded when an interaction with someone did not go well at all.  I wanted to close off, to ignore it, or to go to the other extreme and unload my frustrations on this person.

I went to my exercise class.  With thoughts swirling around in my mind, I knew what I needed to do the second I got home.  I needed to write, burn, and learn.  I have practiced this skill for 9 years now (as of 2020).  I know how it works. I’ve seen miracles in me as a result of it.  I’ve witnessed hearts be softened because I was at peace during difficult conversations.  And so I committed to do it.

I know that the voices are telling you you don’t have time to do this or it won’t work or it won’t help.  I invite you to try it anyway.  Create a space where tough conversations can happen without attendant negative emotions and energy.

It matters!

(first published March 2015)