As this new year dawns,
may we pause –
like the forest at first light –
and remember who we are.
May we recognize the suffering born of hate,
and may we meet it not with more fire,
but with clear seeing, steady breath,
and compassionate action.
Like water shaping stone,
may our kindness be persistent.
Like roots beneath the soil,
may our intentions be quiet and strong.
When fear arises,
may we notice it without feeding it.
When anger appears,
may we allow it to pass like a storm—
felt, but not obeyed.
May we remember that each being—
human, animal, river, mountain, wind—
is bound by the same thin, sacred thread.
To harm one is to harm the whole.
To heal one is to heal the whole.
For those who feel small or powerless,
may we remember the teaching of the seed:
no tree begins as a forest.
One mindful act, one kind word,
one moment of awareness
can change the direction of the world.
May we walk gently on this Earth,
listening to what has been wounded
and responding with care.
May we release what no longer serves—
greed, cruelty, illusion—
and make space for wisdom to grow.
In this turning of the year,
may our minds become clearer,
our hearts more open,
our actions aligned with right intention.
May peace arise naturally,
as the lotus rises from the mud –
untouched by what it grew from,
offering beauty to all.
May all beings be safe.
May all beings be free from suffering.
May all beings live in harmony
Peace to all – Johnna
Two Travelin' Chicas... 