We are lucky. Our lives are broken into 30,000 new births rounded by sleep. We don’t have to wait for a new year or a big event to shift a paradigm, start over, or try again. Every single morning of our lives gives us that opportunity.
The venerable Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, wrote the following in his classic book Peace is Every step.
“Waking up this morning, I smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. I vow to live fully in each moment and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion.”
I’ve held this quote close for the 30 years since I first read it. We are each gifted “twenty-four brand new hours” every day. Whether you’re prince or pauper, tall or short, skinny or heavy, male or female, whatever your race or creed; we are all equal in this regard.
No one gets an advantage. It’s an opportunity and a responsibility. It begs the question, “What will you and I do with this amazing gift?”
Our answers become our lives. Don’t worry, though, if today isn’t the day you figure it all out. With a little luck, you’ll get another birth tomorrow morning to take another step on the journey.
Let’s be the people we came to the planet to be today.
Ray
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The Affirmation Spot Blog 
I’ve read some of Thich Nhat Hanh’s poetry and listened to his meditations, but have not read any of his books. Maybe I’ll keep watch for this one since I appreciate the quote including “all beings.” Today, I will look with compassion at myself and those I come in contact with, even the ants on my kitchen counter.
His books are quick reads. Many overlap. Peace Is Every Step is the one I’d recommend. So much simplicity and wisdom in that book.
Thank you!