We want a little risk in our lives because it keeps things interesting. It wakes us up, it gives us a sense that we're alive and breathing and doing Something! Throwing yourself into it begins with being grateful that you even have something to throw yourself into.

There are always two risks: the risk of trying something new, and the risk of not trying. You risk settling and continuing in the same way, wondering about other paths and possibilities, believing that this is as good as it gets while discontent gnaws away at your soul.

Behind every creative act is a statement of love. Every artistic creation is a statement of gratitude.

You just took a breath. You're about to take another. Inhale, then exhale, then another inhale. In and out. There's a rhythm to your breathing. It's the same with nature.

THANKSGIVING Gratefulness is feeling blessed, / But thankgiving is "thanks" expressed. / We validate the attitude / By speaking forth our gratitude. --- DLH (Thanksgiving Day, 2011)

I woke in the hour before dawn, stuck in that strange state where the memory of your dreams is still powerful enough to motivate your actions.