During spiritual direction yesterday, I recognized a deep sense of gentleness within. I think I continue to bear fruit from traveling to Big Sur in January and the desert of NW New Mexico in February. In both places I did little other than attend to the spirit and myself (even while attending a conference in New Mexico).

I no longer beat myself up for failures or failings. I no longer question myself endlessly as to whether or not what I did was right. I no longer live with debilitating guilt hidden from all but the eyes of my soul and my God.

My prayer is that this is a permanent condition – an abiding sense of gentleness with myself. I also hope (and pray) that this emerging spaciousness within bears fruit in my relationships with others and in the works I feel called to engage in. I hope I can accompany others on their journeys toward gentleness.