The word “untrammeled” arose in three totally separate conversations recently, which sure seems like a sign. It turns out that untrammeled does not mean undisturbed, as I’d long supposed. Rather, it means free and unconstrained.

This week, I am appreciating all of the people in my life who have seen my very best, when I am far from it. The ones who have believed that I am smarter and kinder and more capable than I have believed of myself. The ones who do not ask for quieter, or lesser, or simpler, or easier. The ones who pull me up by their own living examples, lighting the way.

What a gift they offer.

They do not wish me smaller.

Dear ones, the world needs our fullness.

May we cherish those who believe us into being.

May we be seen.

May we live untrammeled lives.