We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake, not by mechanical aids, but by the infinite expectation of the dawn, which does not forsake us in our soundest sleep. I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavor. It is something to be able to paint a particular picture, or to carve a statue, and so to make a few objects beautiful; but it is far more glorious to carve and paint the very atmosphere and medium through which we look, which morally we can do. To affect the quality of the day, that is the highest of arts. Every man is tasked to make his life, even in its details, worthy of the contemplation of his most elevated and critical hour.
Henry David Thoreau
Walden: Where I Lived and What I Lived For
Quiet Mind
Beautiful art begins with the fabric of ones mind. A mind in turmoil, full of fear and hatred cannot produce beautiful art. I will cultivate my mind with a daily practice of meditation. I will allow stillness and acceptance to saturate my mind. I will forge a strong mind—full of the best ideas, sharp, but open.
Open Heart
I cannot achieve an ethic of compassion by thinking about it. Compassion comes from many actions, done each day.
Strong Body
The body does not lie. It reflects effort faithfully. I will spend time each day training my body until it is strong, lithe, and powerful.
