thirty two

never cut what you can untie.

I learned a great many things when I read The Gifts of Imperfection by brene brown. but I remember and reiterate three simple words. courage. compassion. connection.

her definitions are simple and beautifully stated (allow me to paraphrase) …

courage is to speak one’s mind by telling all in one’s heart. courage is acknowledging hurt and not run from it or hurt back. talk about the hard things. things that get in the way. the misunderstood. the mistakes. be accountable. and it takes courage to listen. it takes courage to forgive and move forward. cruelty is never brave.

the heart of compassion is really acceptance. it is impossible to practice compassion from a place of resentment.

connection is to receive with an open heart – putting judgment aside. for everyone involved to be seen, heard and valued. to make love a priority. hatred is destructive.

it is my mantra that we can choose love over fear. love always wins. perhaps the ultimate test of a relationship is to disagree but to hold hands. in my house we hold hands.

peace.