People dear to me are dying. There is no rhyme or reason to it, just like there is no rationale for the timing or meaningfulness of any loss. We can construct a story about why and how things happen, but we can never ever know cause and effect for sure. I can make no sense out of life and death except to embrace the timing of both. Today I am celebrating Paul's life as I grieve his death.

I've always been wary of permanent ink - especially on a body. Tattoos are meant to be noticed.  Some tats are works of art. Good or bad, the outcome is yours, indelibly. But imagine how it would feel while a tattoo artist is working, if you hear, "Oops!" Here are some of those permanent tattoops*...

Yes, I went to see a movie by myself yesterday. In the midst of other people, it sometimes feels good to be isolated in my own experience. I like to buy my own bag of popcorn, and I like to savor my own opinions and feelings. I like to do this in the energy soup of others, hearing their collective gasps, chuckles and sighs as part of “surround sound”.

Taoist teachings often come in the form of a story. These ancient tales are entertaining and illuminating. The messages they offer are as relevant today as they were during the Han dynasty. The story, The Horse Expert, is about assessing the character of an animal, but it applies to everyone who touches our lives. Evaluating the merits of a new puppy, an employee, a boss, or a friend-to-be is not easy.  What we see is not always what we get. Is our response to outward appearances reliable, or do we need to look deeper?

Thank you for visiting the blog this week. As readers, you are my treasured partners in this writing adventure. I write from the heart and I appreciate your responsive notes and comments. Valentine's Day is a reminder to express warm sentiments to those who bring us joy - and that includes ourselves. So I'm wondering, if you were sending yourself a valentine, what would the message say? Would it express love and appreciation for all the ways you are kind, generous, and caring? Would you compose a message that’s inspiring, practical, or funny?