There’s a curious form of time-shifting that comes from returning to a place we once knew well. When I travelled to Japan a few weeks ago, I was delighted to hear once again the phrase, “ki o tsukete.”

Usually these words are translated as “take care,” but the literal translation is a little more magical, since “ki” means spirit. Multiple times each day, we are reminded, “Tend to your spirit.”

I was thinking of this as a uniquely Japanese concept, when on my way to work I noticed a patch of graffiti advising, “Protect Yo Heart.” Perhaps this is a universal sentiment after all – or could be.

Dear ones, let us venture forth, out into the world where our spirits and hearts can flourish.

Let us tend to them as we go.