Most clearly, a conception of freedom and liberty that is solely negative leaves out the possibilities of positive liberty. Positive liberty is, “the possibility of acting in such a way as to take control of one’s life and realize one’s fundamental purposes.” When we celebrate the idea of freedom only as the absence of constraints, we leave out the possibility of building a society where people really have control of their lives, both as individuals and as a collective.

from The Myth of Freedom

Look what I found today!!! I smell autumn 🍂

When the three factors-concentration, mindfulness and equanimity are present, the operating mode of the mind shifts significantly. The mind becomes more buoyant, less “stuck” on an experience, and more adept at shifting attention from moment to moment. In addition, the mind is more tranquil and workable, more disciplined, more capable of seeing events without the burden of self-centeredness.

from The Comparing Mind

It’s really trivial but my exercise streak is no more and I’m sad about it. I had the weirdest day yesterday — head spinning, throbbing, nausea, felt clammy — so had no choice but to hide in the bedroom with all the blinds drawn. The whole day was spent horizontal and it seems I really needed it.

Today is much better but I don’t feel ready to resume the same level of activity yet. I want to highlight that this is me, listening to my body, practicing self-compassion and reminding myself that broken streaks can be mended*. I can bounce back. I’ve done it before and I can do it again.

I wish my inner critics from the past, all a little out of date and unaware of the newer and kinder and more capable version of myself, sit and watch for a change. Not be too loud for a change.

From previous excavations, I know I can’t banish these parts of me. I also don’t want to.

It’s a bright, grey day. Diffused light always makes me feel like my edges are blurred.

*Can I please get a point for self-compassion? Is my Apple Watch keeping track?