I am sitting in the Subaru auto-service waiting area.  I came in for a quick oil change and was told I need new front and rear breaks.  I’m glad I brought work to do. Needed new breaks seems like a great metaphor right now. I definitely need to slow down and come to a complete stop with ease… and take a break from doing, working, going all the time! I bet a lot of us do.

Recently, a friend asked if I ever got an entire day to just hang out by myself and do whatever I want. Wow.  Can’t remember when the last time that happened. How would I spend my time?

Yesterday I officiated at the funeral of a beautiful 54 year old woman who was a beloved daughter, wife and mom of two.  There were close to 1000 people at her funeral because she had a heart large enough to hold them all.  We never really know who we reach with our love or who has been touched by a deed, word or good thought we send.  For some of us, living a life that offers unconditional love and acceptance, sweet hugs and acts of kindness comes naturally.  For others, it takes a concentrated effort to live life in this manner. Either way, when we do live with the intention to live a meaningful life of good deeds, acceptance and love, the world has got to be a better place.  Just has to be.   And we are better for it.

We are now into the 10 Days of Awe–the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur devoted to ongoing reflection and repentance.  I reflect today on how I can be more open and accepting of others and myself.  I am inspired by the strong women who have come before me. Women who, despite encountering (daily) pain and challenges, model what it means to live with a loving heart and a compassionate soul.

For those who have paved the way… I am grateful.