Today let us think about the people in our lives–of all genders and relationships to us–who have nurtured us. Those who loved us in difficult times. Those who sat with us through our worst. Those who encouraged us to be better people, and who guided us in that task.
Who are the people who have nurtured you? Hold them in your heart throughout the day.
The union of two people or two entities requires negotiation. The best negotiations don’t get mired in positions, but instead focus on needs and values. Each party must be able to articulate their values and state their needs; each party must be able to say how they will help meet the needs of the other. Sometimes, sacrifices are made. Sometimes, synergy is developed.
How can you make your needs and values known to others today in generative ways?
When two roads or tracks merge, care must be taken by everyone approaching the merge point. In a car, merges work best when people take turns. It is necessary to watch out for others and good practice to use courtesy and compassion.
Notice where your pathway intersects with others today. How are you treating them at those merges?
“It is the intimacy of steel melting
into steel, the fire of your individual
passion to take hold of ourselves
that makes sculpture of your lives,
builds buildings.”
-Cherríe Moraga, from her poem “The Welder”
Notice today where your heart is creating the heat necessary to make a sculpture of your life.
Marriage is only one of the possible times when people make vows to one another. Some of us have been sworn to tell the whole truth in court, others have been asked to take an oath upon assuming a new position of public trust, and yet others have made a sacred promise to a religious community. Each of these vows changes our behavior by asking us to see ourselves as something beyond ourselves.
What are the vows you would make today to yourself? What are the vows you would make to all of humanity?
