Image: Flickr/Dani Alvarez

“In the name of God, stop a moment. Cease your work, look around.” (Leo Tolstoy)

Yes, we’re all busy. If it’s not the office demanding your attention, it’s the laundry, or an aging parent, a needy friend, an empty refrigerator. But guess what? All of that will still be there if you don’t attend to it right away. So, if you do nothing else today, do this one thing: Stop.

Stop all the activity, all the noise. Drop all the projects. Just stop…for a moment. Be still. Listen to the hum of your house, the laughter of your kids. Breathe deeply the smell of autumn leaves. Stare into the fireplace. Feel the warmth of someone’s hand touching yours. Hug someone a little longer than you normally would.

Look around at all the blessings you have been granted, and be grateful today.