The Little Things

June 1, 2025

Photo from Pixabay

Last week my husband and I celebrated 35 years of marriage, which brought us to pause and reflect on how we got here. Milestones are reached through a series of stepping stones, adjustments, decisions, and detours. Basically the stuff of life. 

Love is like a mosaic of colored glass, many little pieces, some with sharp edges and imperfections, that reflect the light within us. The mosaic is created over time through the gentle handling of vulnerability, loss, and disappointment. It takes attention, care, and patience to put broken pieces together in the light of love. It is joyful work that includes celebration and deep satisfaction.

I think about the little things we do for each other, the simple expressions of love and care, and the attention we give to our home, our family, and our life. These are the glue that hold our mosaic together, bringing comfort and wholeness. Over the years we have become more and more attuned to each other, making the rhythm of our days more harmonious. This unfolding of the love within us has made life richer, sweeter, and more precious than ever. 

In our world, there are big things happening that feel scary and overwhelming. I wonder what I can do; I feel so small. Much has been shattered leaving shards of glass with very sharp edges. How do the little acts of kindness, attention, and service help us get through this and create something new? I need to remember that these things matter, as they are the stuff of love. 

The little things that make up my daily routine help me stay grounded: morning meditation, yoga, coffee, writing….evening relaxation, music, conversation, and preparation for the next day. This affirmation from Deepak Chopra has been helpful to me:

Being at peace is my greatest strength.

If this is true, then this peace must be cultivated, protected, and cherished. How can I be strong right now? By finding and maintaining my inner peace. 

In a time of chaos, cruelty, and brokenness, peace is a powerful and valuable tool. It is a quality of being that we carry into every situation, and that makes a difference. It brings much-needed hope, healing, and calm. This means the little things that keep us grounded and at peace are actually significant. 

Noticing and gratitude are also important. I pause to notice and appreciate the ways the universe provides for me in ways large and small, through people, ideas, birds, beauty, nature, and meaningful work…through opportunities to learn, grow, laugh, play, and rest….through music, books, art, and stories of courage and hope. These are all signs of God’s Presence in the world, through all the little things. The stuff of life and love. 

As the background noise of our world goes on and wears us down at times, may we each find ways to cultivate peace, joy, and love. These are our greatest strengths. Our strength also comes from connection and community, so find ways to reach out and engage with others. Together we empower humanity in the face of inhumane actions. 

You can become a center of love. Enough centers of love in the city and around the nation will help to evoke wise actions by our government, and bring the unified support of people. Enough centers of love around the world will build bridges of

communication and peace. 

Love is the answer.

-Eric Butterworth

Rise & Shine,

ej

Elisa J. Juarez