be merciful

+ other random thoughts for a new year

“Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man.”
— Rabindranath Tagore

I love this quote. perhaps today we could read it—
every new year comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man.

with that in mind, here are some random thought-tapas
to nibble on this first day of a new year.

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be merciful

assume the best

if you do assume the worst, at least ask questions first

indulge your good curiosities

reinforce connections to things and people you trust

text/write people you think of

turn the other cheek

be merciful

assume people aren’t thinking nasty things about you

assume God is thinking fondly of you

eat wholesomely with your eyes

eat wholesomely with your mind

(with your ears and stomach too)

move your body

go outside

most people are vitamin D deficient

play

write something that no one will read

enjoy the pleasure of not needing to add your opinion

if you don’t know, maybe try “I don’t know”
maybe add “I’ll look into it though”

you are probably dehydrated

be merciful to yourself too
(otherwise what mercy will you have for others?)

read if you can

learn from people you admire

cultivate your loves

if you cannot stomach enemy-love in person
then at least try it secretly

be merciful
as your heavenly father is merciful

hear someone out you disagree with
(ask clarifying questions
ask for time to process)

give someone the benefit of the doubt

practice gratitude

try that thing at the grocery store you’ve been eyeing

consider the way you want to be treated

spend time with family & friends while you can

sing

and please go see live music

Sunrise on the Matterhorn — Albert Bierstadt

much love to you all and looking forward to seeing you here and elsewhere in 2025.

cheers to you in this coming year!

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thanks for being here. I write weekly sharing poetry, songs, musings, thoughts on creative life, and hopefully some encouragement… my first collection of poetry, Snowmelt to Roots, is available in my shop, (or on Amazon). and my music is available here.

Z