February: On Life

February 3

Today's reflection was inspired by a quote from Paul Auster's biography of Stephen Crane, Burning Boy.

Open your phone or turn on the news and you'll see no end to the many ways humanity is currently failing. 

Sure, you could focus on this and complain or despair.

Or, you could do what's in your power to make a difference. 

And while you're at it, you could smile with amusement and kindness in the face of the conceits, hypocrisies, weaknesses, and selfishness of mankind--a beautiful act of defiance.

• Reflection title: May You Continue To Smile
• Creative inspiration: Paul Auster, Burning Boy
• Reflection Question: What is something worth smiling about today? If I’ve been bitter, how can I correct for it?