A beautiful day

Marshall Rosenberg is the author of "Speak Peace in a World of Conflict." His message is simple: speech affects behavior.

I woke up this morning hoping for another beautiful day. I took the dog for a walk, fixed breakfast for the cats and the dog, cleaned up animal indiscretions on the floor, took a shower,said morning prayers, checked the Vacation Rentals By Owner Web site for inquiries for our chalet, prepared breakfast and sipped my favorite beverage, cafe latte.

The sun is shining and the skies are clear. The rising sun lighted up a tree turned fall red. I walked mindfully along Clover Lane, Roxie walking patiently at my side, tethered by a short leash.

I spoke to Lisa who is in Richmond on business. She made one sale of a handmade guitar cover and is scheduled to present her felted clothing line to a museum store buyer.

Today, I'll clean the chalet for guests coming this weekend and clean our house for Lisa's return tonight.

Tonight I'll also participate in the initiation of a new member of Highland Lodge 110 of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons.

While I was eating, a friend dropped off copies of "Demian"  and "Steppenwolf" by Hermann Hesse, leaving  them outside the door. She didn't knock or stop to visit. I heard her footsteps on the wooden walk but didn't get up to investigate until after I was sure she was gone.

My mind is full of conflict, inner turmoils I have nurtured for a lifetime. In the solitary quiet of my home, I hope to find peace. Peace begins with a word.

Today is a beautiful day. I have said it is so, now I will make it so.