Dear Friends,

Everywhere I look I see birds winging past. They are busy building nests, laying eggs, hatching babies, and getting those babies fed. It’s what they do each spring. They make me wonder: What am I bringing forth this spring? And: Do I have the courage to begin something—again? (My body feels heavy writing this after learning of the latest pair of mass shootings. Why is it that one human being takes it upon themselves to harm another?) As Diana Gregory pointed out in her excellent workshop a few weeks ago, even climbing out of bed and greeting a new day is a creative act. And each choice we make creates new possibilities for our day. What’s for breakfast? Shall I have tea or coffee? Even choosing the same thing is a choice that makes a difference. (As usual, I opt for tea with milk, granola, blue berries, and almond milk.) After breakfast, I perk up. My positive mood is bolstered when I remember the fierce commitment I made years ago to nurture myself and others. I know that in doing so, I am living my best possible life.
 
The springtime month of April aligns with Stage Four of the Great Round. It’s a time of Beginning, of Embracing the New, and it’s the stage of the Good Mother. Of course, no mother can meet all the needs of her child, even though she tries very hard. But most of us are lucky. We have a Good Enough Mother, a person who cares for us until we can grow into a functioning human being, a person capable of living within society in ways that are steady, affectionate, and productive. Then, unlike the troubled young killers, we are able to become a Good Mother to ourselves. What a triumph of creative thinking it is when we can assume responsibility for giving ourselves all the tender, loving care we need!
 
I dreamed of birds building nests last night, and woke up still thinking about them this morning. Inspired by all the birds in my life right now, I’m sharing with you my Nesting Mandala. I invite you to join me in the life affirming activity of creating a mandala.
 
Enjoy