What would make you genuinely happy? Really happy. Sometimes we think it is money, and while that might take some pressure off (or not) will it really bring happiness? Or maybe we dream of fame. Or greater status? Perhaps we think more influence will make us feel more important and therefore more worthy? Then there’s stress. Is less stress something you wish for? Would having less to do somehow help you focus more on what you want to do? It’s hard to tell, but here is what I do know…

To a certain extent, we are in control of our own happiness. I’m not saying it is easy. Think about it like this. What brings you joy? Even in the midst of a storm, where do you find peace and stability? How do you affect the world around you? How much control do you have over the feelings listed above? A lot, right?

I want you to know that you have the ability to create your own sense of agency – feeling empowered to take action to alleviate suffering…yours and others. This is a critical part of compassionate action. When you feel a sense of agency, you understand that you have the power to make a difference. There is hope.

So, how are you feeling today? What do you hope for? Take a step in that direction. One step in front of the other. You CAN get there. Feel your power. Even when you feel like the world is too big, or the problems too diverse and complex. Find a focus. Breathe in. Breathe out. Step forward. The world is waiting.

Leanne Rubenstein
Compassion Cultivator 
Compassionate Atlanta