a daily blog on well-being and how to feel better by Mark Barger Elliott…

Mark Nepo is a cancer survivor who describes how he learned “during the many crises of cancer… unless someone is bleeding or can’t breathe, unless there is some true physical requirement to act swiftly, a sense of urgency is a terrible illusion.” He then makes the point how, “the doorway to our next step of…

“Wrapped within young leaves,” wrote the Japanese poet Sodeki, “the sound of water. Reflecting on this poem Mark Nepo observed how, “embedded in the seed is the blossom. Embedded in the womb is the child fully grown. Embedded in the impulse to care is the peace of love realized. Embedded in the edge of risk…

Author Mark Nepo makes the helpful observation he’s learned how, “real commitment comes before I know where anything is going.” He’s discovered this truth in deciding to become a poet before he knew what to say, as well as within his relationships, health challenges, and vocational choices. It’s a cliche, but as he notes, “Without…

“Plans are useless, but planning is invaluable.” This quote has been attributed to many people, including Winston Churchill. It is a helpful reminder nothing gets done without imagining what we are ultimately trying to accomplish. Yes, things won’t go as planned, but the plan is the start. The plan is how we begin to move…

“I have been born again and again,” observed photographer Gordan Parks, “and each time I have found something to love.” Parks’ words are a wonderful reminder to invite and to trust as our lives evolve and change that love can lead us forward. —— As an expression of gratitude for joining me as readers over…

On this day of Thanksgiving it is helpful to pause and consider how each of us is, as one author put it, “precious and rare and awake.” Such an awareness and insight are seeds from which our gratitude can grow. Wishing you and yours, a very happy Thanksgiving. —— As an expression of my gratitude…