I’m living in a stranger’s house for the holidays.
Instead of our familiar, tiny apartment, my partner and I have temporarily moved into a new-to-us space in Tavira, with sunny balconies, wall mount heaters and a heated mattress pad. (This last was an unexpected blessing for my heat-loving partner.) There’s even a Christmas tree!
And our new canine companion, Jake.
This morning, I picked a book off the shelf, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy.
It’s a lovely little book crammed with truth, sparse drawings and loveable characters. I picked it up with the sense that it might have something to offer me today, and maybe you, too.
This line stood out:
“Kindness…sits quietly beyond all things.”
I love the idea of kindness, not as something we do, but as a place. A presence.
That underneath the noisy thoughts about what needs to happen and all the imagined consequences if it doesn’t, beneath judgements, worries and insecurities…
…kindness is already there. Quietly, beyond all things and all thoughts.
It’s why it feels so nice to watch the sun set with nothing on your mind.
Or cuddle on the couch with a fluffy dog.
Or do nothing with friends.
When we’re not paying attention to the noise in our heads, the kindness that’s always present has a chance to be felt, and it’s lovely.
So here’s an invitation for today: be kind to yourself today.
All it takes is slowing down, taking a few breaths, and noticing the feeling of space that’s always already here.
Wishing you an experience of the enduring presence of kindness this holiday season.
Yours in love and play,
Steph 🐲❤️🔥
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