Adventures in Present Moment (part 3)

Last week I wrote about the adverse conditions at as we crossed the continental divide. The lessons I learn from adversity are some of the most valuable lessons in life. One of those lessons is in choosing people who are trustworthy. Since we are all interdependent, finding people who we can depend upon allows us to be supported, safe and nourished.

This does not happen instantly. Let me tell you more. Melody and I have known each other for a couple of decades. During this time she has repeatedly demonstrated behavior which reflects her decision to act responsibly with compassion towards others and herself. It was easy for me to warm up to her and allow for our friendship to bloom. I paid attention and saw her words and her deeds were congruent.

Qualities I look for in a friend are:

• Compassion
• Empathy
• Mutuality
• Honesty
• Emotional safety

What qualities are important to you to find in a person for friendship?

Our motorcycle journey ended at the campsite on a warm evening with all of us talking and sharing about the days ride. We spoke of the sunny start of the day and the ice crystals on the divide. We joined together in the telling. Each of us offered our own unique description of the experience. It was joyful. Finally, I crawled into my sleeping bag with a million stars glimmering overhead. I thought to myself life is a spicy adventure including adversity as well as starlit nights. My heart was full of gratitude.

Continue reading more about the effects of gratitude on quality of life written by  Paul B. Taubman II

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