Dear Yogis,

I've been feeling nostalgic and a bit sappy lately, experiencing a heartfelt gratitude for my simple days as they unfold. Being with Greg, sharing laughter with friends and family, spending time with my sweet chickens, and soaking up the beautiful sunsets as they come a little sooner each day. I haven't felt very well this last week, but in the midst of that, I have also noticed a charged appreciation for small improvements in my health. From day to day, I don't know what is going to change or go away, but I am enjoying the sense of care and presence that has me rapt as of late.

Even as screwed up as the world has become (or maybe because it seems like it's slipping away), I love this life...regardless of the news and mapped out predictions of all the tipping points that have done tipped. I think the ongoing uncertainty and disturbing loss of freedoms and institutions has bounced me into a perspective of loving and embracing what is left, and perhaps a strange new hope of what might be possible as the pendulum eventually swings back. 

I walk out into my backyard surrounded by this incredible living planet, I see the dear faces of those that join me on Zoom each week, I witness the contentment of Kismet basking in the sun, and I recognize the joy of being loved and supported by my dear Greg...and it's like a little sprinkle of appreciation, reminding me of the precious goodness that is available to me. And it is amplified by knowing how fortunate I am and how my circumstances give me opportunities that many others are lacking.

In the midst of doing what I can to support positive change, I am in love with this day, with this moment, and the gift that it is to be alive in the craziness...all the while knowing that this feeling of wanting to wrap my arms around it all, will also pass. I will have moments, perhaps tomorrow, that make me shake and hang my head, tired of trying, and I will no doubt feel a biting clarity that whatever I do, it will not make a big enough difference. But even in those low times, I can recall this experience of absolute, head over heels love that I am feeling right now for this life. And it will remind me to appreciate the simple things that are indeed, right in front of me.

Wishing you peace and supportive connections through the holiday. If you happen to be spending the holidays with loved ones that challenge you or have different world views, here is Oren Jay Sofer's practical ideas of how to stay grounded at family gatherings. 


With Lovingkindness & A Grateful Heart,
Heidi
hlyogini@yahoo.com