The world can be a tough place. There are times when the pain and sadness seem overwhelming. But there is always good if we look for it.

While there are injustices and hardships and the deaths of those we love, there are also sweet embraces, exuberant toddler giggles, cups of freshly brewed tea, sweet grandmothers, songs to sing, kind strangers who become new friends, tall trees, and the beauty of the moon. There are wonders and joys and fantastic surprises. There is kindness and generosity and affection. There is hope.

Today and every day, may we seek the splendor in the world around us. May we breathe in the world’s pain and breathe out love in its place. Finally, may we work to heal the world by making it a more beautiful place, starting first in our own hearts and moving out from there.

Be soft. Be open. Be the light.

“Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place.”  –Iain Thomas