A New Day Arrives

Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend - or a meaningful day.

  - Dalai Lama

What is it that would make today full of meaning for you?

When I thought about this, the answer that came wasn't what I expected. At first I wanted to say it was all the good stuff. Feeling loved. Feeling happy. Hugs from friends. Laughter. Joy. Success.

​But when I really thought about it, I couldn't imagine a meaningful life without the heavy stuff too. Sadness. Anger. Frustration. Those things don't detract from the meaning and depth of a day, they just provide contrast and feedback. 

Upon further reflection, I realized that what would make today meaningful for me would be to simply be aware of the present moment.

​Be in the moment, with whatever it brings, breathe into it, and know that I'm alive. The sun is shining through the window. My heart is beating in my chest. A cup of warm coffee is sitting beside me. I am alive. My presence is what makes today meaningful.

Whatever you feel would make today meaningful for you, it's correct. What provides meaning in a day changes for us by the week, the month, the year, the decade. We're in a constant flow. All that matters is that you ask yourself what's true for you, and you hold onto that truth and embrace what's meaningful with all your being.