But peace can be made only by those who are peaceful, and love can be shown only by those who love. No work of love will flourish out of guilt, fear, or hollowness of heart, just as no valid plans for the future can be made by those who have no capacity for living now. 

Alan Watts —The Book (p. 112)

Whenever I find myself in an argument, I wonder why it’s so hard to move past it and find peace and love. Then, instead of looking outside myself at the other person, it helps if I look at my own part in the play. Knowing that “love can only be shown by those who love,” it says way more about me than the “other” when I am failing miserably at showing love. Just because I may not be ready to admit it out loud or make a drastic change in the moment doesn’t mean I am not aware of the role I play.

Lately, my entire focus has been on living in the present moment and staying aware of my own experience. Instead of habitually intellectualizing, I have been taking steps to recognize and name what I am feeling in the present moment. This task hasn’t gone perfect, it’s not always easy, but my perseverance has been paying off.

Have a blessed day.

Peace and Love,

~Travis