When we begin to hold our markers for success in concepts like interconnectedness and kindness, when we place our highest value on each other, our children and our relationships, then our human spirits soar.

JAMES ARANA

interconnectedness and kindness. it seems so cliché to say these two words can be our mantra. let's call them what they are: simple goals. as we know, simple isn't always easy ;)

moving from approximately 18 months of a quasi connectedness; really reconnecting with friends, family, and loved ones can be soul nurturing and yes, not so easy. being in public again with people; crowds can and does bring a lack of kindness. waiting longer for just about everything; stores and restaurants are under staffed and ordering online has it own set of challenges: back orders, longer shipping times. we are all experiencing some sort of anxiousness and impatience while things return "to the way they used to be." thus, kindness may be elusive.

let's practice interconnectedness: once a day, consciously engage with another person: talk to them. smile at them. look them in the eye. if you aren't in person, don't open your phone or another tab on your computer while you are conversing--really be there to connect

let's practice kindness: once a day hold a door open for someone, say "hi" or "please" or "thank you," or how about, "have a nice day."

my wish for you is that your spirit soars.

-light your lamp & you light the world

june