You do not know what will happen . . . or how to stop worrying and live your life

When things are uncertain, we worry. It could be that you're waiting to hear if you made a good impression on that job interview. Maybe you're setting off on a trip to a place where you don't speak the language and you don't know anyone. You could be waiting for test results -- from an admission exam or a biopsy or a radon check in your home. It doesn't matter what it is that makes us uncertain, from the mundane to the truly scary. The truth is that you do not know what will happen.

Sure, you can prepare yourself for a good outcome. Study hard, know the material, stay healthy, keep your zone clean and up to code. My friend, Ron, always relied on the adage prepare for the worst and hope for the best. That's good advice.

But at the end of the day, you do not know what will happen.

I offer this not as a despairing message. No, not at all. In fact, I see it and use it as a hopeful, grounding and positive affirmation to avoid projecting your worries into the future. It is a way to remind yourself to stay in the present moment and abide with what you do know -- that you are here now, you are breathing, you are choosing what to say and do, right now. Always do your best, work diligently at laying a sturdy, solid foundation, learn as much as you can, and then let go. Just be. A few deep breaths always help. Just . . . be. Breathe. And be.

I know this is not an easy practice but I find it worth the effort. Give it a try.

Love and peace to you always.