Sometimes the easiest way to appreciate ourselves is by looking through the eyes of someone who loves us.

Somewhere in my early twenties I realized I was pretty constantly monitoring myself, judging how I was always falling short, whether it was about not being a good enough daughter or friend, or my appearance, or whatever. I ended up becoming involved with a spiritual path in the yogic tradition, living in an ashram, doing a very rigorous spiritual practice.

As we free ourselves from the suffering of 'something is wrong with me, 'we trust and express the fullness of who we are.'

Nothing is wrong - whatever is happening is just "real life."

When you are in touch with your body and heart, it allows you to then be in the world and act with intention and clarity and kindness.

In the collective psyche it is being understood... that we can cultivate wisdom and compassion.

Most of us need to be reminded that we are good, that we are lovable, that we belong. If we knew just how powerfully our thoughts, words, and actions affected the hearts of those around us, we'd reach out and join hands again and again. Our relationships have the potential to be a sacred refuge, a place of healing and awakening. With each person we meet, we can learn to look behind the mask and see the one who longs to love and be loved.