During the holiday season I’m presenting a series of short articles on self-care.  While this may seem like a departure from animal welfare issues the two are related.  The more love and compassion we hold for ourselves, the more we can share compassion with all forms of life.  So here’s wishing you a cruelty free Christmas or joyous holiday!

Let peace begin with me.  Too often we think we need to fix others to change the world when in fact the only thing we truly have power over is ourselves.  Today, when you feel the urge to help someone else stop to consider if you might be trying to avoid your own feelings, some unfinished work, or some anxiety.  There is nothing wrong with helping others, in fact, it’s extending your compassion to others is to be admired.  However, if you help others so that you can avoid our own life, you are missing out on the greatest part of your own journey.