I fervently hope the phrase, "I know exactly how you feel", never again comes out of my mouth. I used to think these words offered someone a measure of comfort when they were going through a challenging time. I've since learned otherwise.

Yesterday I was sharing how I felt about something when the person I was conversing with uttered the phrase. It brought me no comfort. I found myself wishing they would have just let me speak. Instead, the words they spoke didn't give me the opportunity to fully share what was in my heart.

I found myself wondering how they could possibly know how I felt. They didn't have the same experience as mine. Nor did they have the same personality, biology or life challenges. So, how could they feel or think as I do?

I know they meant well. Most people do. They just missed the mark a bit, as we all do from time to time.

This experience, I hope, will make me a better Human Being. Perhaps a better listener. Because I now know not to say, "I know exactly how you feel".

If you've been to one of my workshops or had a session with me you may have heard me say that we are living in the best of times. I believe this with every fiber of my being.

We are in a time where we have access to seemingly unlimited information at our fingertips.

We are in a time where we are not punished or discriminated against for our belief systems.

We have freedom of speech.

We have the freedom to join others in the effort to affect positive change in man-made laws and practices.

At this point you may be saying, "But not everyone has those freedoms." To which I reply, "Not yet... but they will." Another firm belief of mine.

Because those of us who are, indeed, living in the best of times will not rest until all of Humanity is enjoying the same freedoms.

Because we enjoy the access to information we will do what we can to assist all of Humanity enjoying the same right.

Because we have the freedom to worship as we want we will work toward the same for all.

Because we can speak freely we will command the same for those who do not have a voice.

Because we can gather to affect change we will support all of Humanity who wish to do the same.

And it good time all of Humanity will have the belief that we are living in the best of times.

Yesterday my husband and I took a lovely trip to a gem show in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia. This excursion was part of Andrew's birthday gift to me. He very kindly dedicated his entire day to doing things that would bring me joy and for that I am most grateful.

Life has been busy for us both of late and even the 2 hour ride each way in a vehicle together was a blessing. We allowed no other distractions. No business calls... no work... just the two of us focusing on each other.

By the time we reached our destination I felt renewed and revitalized. Then I got to experience the crystals that were on display. Andrew actually quipped that I'd never looked at him with the same excitement that I looked at the various stones. I assured him that he was far more important than my collection and reminded him that he was responsible for purchasing most of the pieces I treasure. That mollified him, somewhat ;-)

Only those who love crystals will be able to understand the excitement I experienced. I was like a kid in a candy store. I 'oohed' and 'aahed' my way through each booth. I think I may have let out a squeal or two when something caught my eye.

By the time I had seen everything there was to see and made my purchases I'm sure Andrew heard far more about the properties of crystals and where they came from than was necessary. But he took it all in stride and always had a smile on his face when I showed him a new treasure.

When we arrived home I carefully unpacked the crystals and washed them. Next will come the task of figuring out where they're going to reside. This is an important part of the process because one does not simply place a crystal anywhere ;-)

At present they're on a counter in my kitchen. Later today they'll be in their rightful place.

And I'll still feel the glow from a lovely trip.