“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
–Maya Angelou
The late, insightful, GOAT Maya Angelou wrote many beautiful quotes that continue to provide nourishment to the starving souls of our world, but the one that stands out in my heart the most is “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” –Maya Angelou
In two short sentences Ms. Angelou articulated the need for self-compassion and forgiveness, along with basic human responsibility. She invited you to realize that though you may have the knowledge now to recognize you should have spoke differently, acted differently, lived differently–that was all before you knew better. Give yourself the gift of grace. Allow yourself to learn from the mistakes without judgement for the person you were.
But, now you know better. Now you have a responsibility to walk each day with that insight held close to your heart; tucked away for whenever you need it. A responsibility to look upon the world in a different light and make sure your actions reflect it.
In short, honor who you were for the growth it provided you, and now live up to the awareness of your soul.
Take a moment. Close your eyes.
As you deeply and slowly fill your lungs with air let joy flow within you to fill all pockets of your body with goodness and happiness. As you breathe out, let peace wrap around you in a blanket of calmness, comfort and acceptance of what was, what is, and what will be.
Breathe in joy, breathe out peace.
Today, and everyday, let your soul shine.
-V
Joy and Soulshine 