Dear ones, it has been quite a week. Remarkable healer and teacher Paul Farmer left this world, just as war was launched in Ukraine. Noble action seems to be suffering, and ignoble action seems to be accelerating.

What to do? Rage, fight, grieve? Yes.

And also, we can refuse to cocoon. We can be present. 

Fiercely alive, loving and grateful and courageous.

Each day a sacred gift.

Blessing for Presence, by John O’Donohue

May you awaken to the mystery of being here 
And enter the quiet immensity of your own presence. 
May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses. 
May you receive great encouragement when new frontiers beckon. 
May you respond to the call of your gift 
And find the courage to follow its path. 
May the flame of anger free you from falsity. 
May warmth of heart keep your presence aflame 
and anxiety never linger about you. 
May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of soul. 
May you take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention. 
May you be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul. 
May you experience each day as a sacred gift 
Woven around the heart of wonder.