Daily Gratitude: I try to remain apolitical here. Loss of life, though, should have no politics.

The country is in turmoil. We are in a pressure cooker, exacerbated by the hopelessness and helplessness we feel.

Whatever else you may find to do to deal with the times, remember two things

One is that gratitude is essential. When you express gratitude and appreciation, you align your energies with that of the universe. That may seem like doing nothing but it is and can be very powerful. If enough people were to align themselves with the positive vibrations of the universe, it would make a difference.

Make sure you’re cultivating your gratitude practice daily. It doesn’t matter if you don’t think others are being grateful or grateful “enough” (in your opinion).

Secondly, take care of each other. We have to do this. We cannot make it alone. Yeah you may be like me and think you can. But I guarantee you that you haven’t really gotten where you are right now on your own. I also am sure that eventually you’ll get your wake up call and realize you need people. Pray that there are still people around who care about you when you do.

I was fortunate and finally (after 70 years) learned the importance of community and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Until about 3 years ago i could honestly say I was never happy. But in that last 3 years with the changes I’ve made AND the community I’ve been accepted into and now cherish, I know what happiness is. For that I will be forever grateful.

Take care of the people around you. I bet there are plenty hurting right now. Reach out to them. Care for them. Protect them. You won’t regret it.