“But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”
                                                                                      Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

It is so hard to remember to look up when you are feeling down.

Some say that Dr. King knew he was going to die shortly when he made that speech. Still, he could see the stars. He remembered to look up and out at the audience, counting them among his blessings and certain that the work would continue.

We do not need to martyr ourselves to take comfort in his statement. Darkness can creep in or arrive in what feels like a collision with a semi.

I remember years ago, during a profound bout of reactionary depression, when the world held no joy. I could feel myself shrink both physically and spiritually, feeling a deep sense of happiness for my then nine-year-old daughter’s victory in a muffin baking contest. It was as if someone opened the door just a crack, and the light began to trickle in. At that moment, I knew the sun would rise again, if not completely in that moment. My daughter was my star on an otherwise dark night. My hope to feel something other than the heaviest weight imaginable was restored. Levity. Looking up. Finding the star.

No matter where you are or the situation, there is a star. You just have to look up. Search the sky until you find it. It’s there. I promise.

Having trouble finding your star? Let’s consult your guides. I’m here for you.

Mary