“Return and return again to what is essential and worthy.” Gerrit Cloete

When the world around us feels confusing and overwhelming, it is important to pause and reflect on what is most essential to the heart. We can then channel that energy into actions that benefit ourselves and those around us.

October was a whirlwind; I was home only one week out of four. Amid this frenetic pace, I spent ample time reflecting on where my time, energy, and finances were directed. I asked myself the pivotal question: how do my choices align with my goals? Auto-pilot can be detrimental when our actions go unchecked. What am I choosing? And why?

Time and again, I return to the significance of connection—investing time and energy in relationships that nurture and shape us; that strengthen our character and provide support when the ground beneath us trembles. We need people who help challenge our assumptions, as well as the self-responsibility to understand how these assumptions drive the way we interpret our life events.

We also need humor, history for context, and beauty in our surroundings. We need to feel helpful and hopeful, and we need to get busy in a meaningful way. So that, at the end of the day, when we lay our heads on our pillows, we feel that our efforts, however small, were a worthwhile contribution. Contrary to what mainstream media suggests, contributions do not have to be monumental to be of value. We can’t all be a da Vinci or a Charles Dickens, and we are not meant to. They need not earn a Grammy or a Nobel Prize. A heartfelt comment, an acknowledgment, or a smile for someone who feels unseen can be profoundly impactful. Simply being fully present with that friend who dedicated time to connect with us is invaluable. If you are a poet, we need your inspiration. If you are a cynic, we need your skepticism. If you are a dreamer, we need your optimism. The biggest contribution can be looking at ourselves in the mirror and recognizing when we are not being the best, truest version of ourselves we can be.

The past few weeks have been spent exploring creative outlets, appreciating art, and taking long walks. I have been attuned to the subtle shifts in the air, the vibrant colors of the leaves, and the way the afternoon light transforms the fabric of our sky. I have mindfully considered the little things that carry significant weight, those aspects that imbue our existence with meaning. If neglected, these moments can ensnare us in a relentless web of chaos. The world contains both painful and beautiful experiences. If we spend our days consuming them solely through digital screens, we risk missing out on what truly enriches the human spirit.

Below, I share some musings and reflections, intertwined with a touch of fictional storytelling. This serves no purpose other than to bring me joy, ignite my creativity, and help me take account of the moments that make me profoundly grateful to be alive. Take what resonates with you and leave the rest. But remember, love is all around us, and it is always the focal point.

Connection as the antidote. Purpose. Something bigger than ourselves. Presence. A profound sense of togetherness. Art. Music that transports. Fall colors. Mountain air. Healthy lungs. Discipline. Commitment to doing what’s right. Love is always the point. South of France. The sweetest reprieve.

Energy is currency. Discernment. Aimless walks. Community. Yes to new friends! But no to small talk— it drains me. Depth and alignment. Fellow writer with notepad at the bar. The Heminguey type, with a Clooney face and a vintage Kodak. Kindred spirits, weaving words into the night. Choices. Met goals, new dreams and old ones reborn. Gratitude for it all.

Authenticity. The truth even when inconvenient. Quality over quantity. Learning new skills. Detachment from what can’t be controlled. Surrender. Beauty revealed in the mundane. A British hello. “Malagueña, que deciz?” Vulnerable love. Directness as kindness. Ego in check. More letting go. Self-responsibility. Creative energy put to the test.

Simplicity is the new luxury. Making things of value. Looking foolish. Each moment a lesson in humility. Dance. Roadtrip with surprise destination. Awe. Take the scenic route. Assessing values. Freedom redefined. Then you came along. Icy dips in the Mediterranean. Warm hugs. A little flower. Laughing at ourselves. Inner peace as the new measure.

More calm, less butterflies. Yes, I am alive! Coffee, the good kind please, no sugaree. Fresh croissants. Carbs won’t kill you, though your obsession might. Heart expanded. Walking chin up, feeling tall. Ladies who brunch—and plan a twist for the plot. Sincere smiles. “Good morning, Sir!” Make that man’s day a little brighter. We all want to feel seen and be heard.

Long walks lead to profound realizations. Bury me somewhere glorious. Chin chin. “Tell me what you want, what you really, really want.” The museum mile, it gets me high. Vintage fashion on Park Ave. Snow-covered Central Park. Twilight. On the reservoir, a knee-weakening kiss. Cashmere and pearls. Sipping champagne by the Christmas tree. Light me a fire, sit here and let silence speak. Eye contact. Two mind readers dancing at midnight. Embracing the impermanence of life. La joie de vivre.

Love, indeed, is the answer. Always worth the risk. Move and start a new life. Perspective is a gift.

How lucky are we?

To be here,

simply

to be.

** Even when the world feels uncertain, when fear and sadness weigh heavy on those around us, art stands as our fierce ally—a powerful vehicle for self-expression. Community is our healing balm. Alone, our burdens may feel overwhelming, but together we can weather any storm. May we always have the capacity to find beauty and extract joy from ordinary moments. Remember what there is to love, and nurture the flame of that love; it will keep our spirit warm through the darkest of times. **

~Dianela