I was joking with my hiking friends that I finally found the perfect hiking partner, she was by my side during the hike and then I came around the corner and there she was racing ahead of me. 

Who is your shadow? 

“We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.”

 by Prince Gautama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism, 563-483 B.C.

What have you been thinking about lately?  Do you find yourself thinking happy thoughts and contemplating wonderful memories or are you trapped in the bitterness of anger or grief? 

As I think on this quote I know that when I am present whether it be on my hikes, bike rides, yoga classes, teaching my students or going out with my friends I want my shadow of joy to always be near me.  Always by my side and if my shadow is ahead of me, I know that I am right behind.

Today think about what your thoughts have been focusing on lately.  Focus on things that bring you joy!