I spent my late teens and early twenties teaching swim lessons. Some of my favorite people to teach were adults who had not yet learned to swim. It was so inspiring to witness their bravery as they let themselves be a beginner and step into the pool, often overcoming years of fearing the water.

Be Curious Before Critical. These words greet me every time I walk into my Naturopath’s office. While this reminder is meant to be helpful during my visit, I have found it also applies to internal thoughts and feelings. It is a weekly reminder of a practice I want to build in my life: assuming a posture of curiosity before rushing to criticism when discovering a part of myself.

Fall has arrived in my neck of the woods, and I am soaking in the beauty all around me. I am grateful for the reminder nature gives each year - that letting go can be beautiful. I am excited to share a favorite poem with you and I pray it is a blessing to you in this season. After reading Macrina’s words, I am deeply touched by the thought that my vulnerability, my dependence, my need and my emptiness, is where my Beauty can be found. May I be courageous enough to give to the world and those I love from this place.

I would love to know what is evoked in you as you read.