My meditation this morning, from Smiling Mind, was on self-compassion. Part of the session involved saying kind things to myself in my head. Without delving deep into my formative years, let’s just say that somewhere along the line I missed the reassurance that I needed to believe in myself. At first, I thought it would be difficult to say those things to myself. The question that surfaced was something along the lines of Do I really need reassurance now at age 60? And then, Do I really deserve such kindness? Am I being greedy to ask for more? The floodgates opened and I said in my mind all those things I really wish someone would say out loud to me. You are smart and creative, funny and kind, and you live wholeheartedly. You are one-of-a-kind and that’s what we love about you. You are resourceful and determined. Being with you makes me happy. You get the idea. Mostly I heard my own voice and the things I’ve said to my sons. I am a loving and kind mother.
I took this photo yesterday morning. It was chilly and one of those windy fall days where leaves dance and swirl and settle and then start all over again. I love this picture because it speaks to the tenacity of the human spirit. Even when we are thwarted at every turn, we often find a way to shine.