Author: justonerobin

"It is better to take many small steps in the right direction than to take a great leap forward only to stumble backward." ~Chinese proverb Making small changes is so counter culture in a society which embraces the notion that doing and being are the same thing. How often have you heard sayings like "… Continue reading many small steps

For several years now I have prayed the Morning Prayer of the Optina Elders regularly. It is a way of starting my day with a bit of openness that has deepened and shifted over time as reflected in the portion below: At every hour of this day, direct and support me in all things. Whatsoever… Continue reading two prayers

You might say that small living has become my overarching philosophy over the past few years. By small I do not mean insular, but being deliberate in learning to live from the true self. The belief that this mindful way of life can transform us and have a ripple effect is why I started this… Continue reading a vocation of small

When I was in high school, one of my favorite possessions was a large poster with a line of Robert Frost's poetry. "Before I built a wall, I'd ask to know what I was walling in our walling out." I was an English major in college and have always felt a kinship with Robert Frost.… Continue reading mending wall psychology

Like many folks, I have spent the better part of my life trying to figure out exactly where I fit in the big picture. I dearly want to have a positive impact on my family and community but have often felt that my efforts were insignificant at best and even futile on my bad days.… Continue reading space on the shelf

"Happiness is rarely absent; it is that we know not of its presence." ~Maurice Maternlinck I live on the east coast, and we do have a fair number of eastern bluebirds here. Still, it is not often that I have seen them up close. In fact I can count the number of times I have… Continue reading bluebird through my window