Short Form
The Next Step Is … Actually, I’m Not Quite Sure–You?
Your Next #CoffeeBreakStory!
While you might think writers are generally writing for others, I think there are many times we are actually writing for ourselves. Unless it’s an appliance manual or some other dry instructional pamphlet … though someone’s gotta write those (just not me!)
But when we write from the heart, we write what we feel compelled to share. We write what flows from our souls and top-of-mind. And while our content may resonate, reassure or uplift someone else, most times, it’s often what we ourselves need to hear! That’s what makes writing so personal.
Yet sometimes, the impetus fades. Enthusiasm wanes. Clarity blurs. A pause is needed as we wonder, “Now what?“
… … …
Which is the prompt for today’s #CoffeeBreakStory. I find myself at this very crossroads again. It’s a mashup of discomfort, revelation and relief! Yet with a very definite overlay of “okay, fine–but what’s next?”
Don’t get me wrong: No one is coming to tell me what to do! I firmly believe our next move is entirely up to us. I’m just not quite sure what that is for me. I feel like the last couple years have been an exercise in figuring out what it isn’t going to be! Which is extremely valuable intel, no?
But after several occasions of thinking I found it … or I was found … Nope, not quite yet!
So for now, I’m on pause with writing on Medium, the platform I talked about in the kickoff to #CoffeeBreakStories over here.
Although I’ve been known to slip out of social events when I’m not feeling the vibe, it felt properly adult to announce to my Medium followers that I’m taking a hiatus.
Got your beverage of choice refilled? Here’s the story I shared there:

A Personal Journey Continues...
A gentle bend in my road beckons … time to veer away for a bit and go check it out!
Sometimes, it’s just time to hang somewhere else
When your heart lets you know, you know. And mine has been tugging at my sleeve lately for my full attention.
Heart: “Pssst! Hey, you!”
Me: “In a minute—I’m driving.”
Heart: “I know, but it’s time to slow down.”
Me: “I don’t have time for that!”
Heart: “Ummm, you don’t have time not to!”
Me: “But I have to keep going or I won’t get there!”
Heart+Mind+Soul: “Are you sure you know where There is? We don’t think so… Stop!” 🛑
Me: “Fine, fine! Y’all happy now?” (*secretly relieved)
Where I Want To Be is currently being examined. The middle of the year is a good time to reflect and reassess. Maybe my direction will change. Maybe not. But now that Introspection accepted my invitation last week, I’m already sensing that my route will be recalculating.
So stepping back from here is also part of the deal.
The way I’m wired, I have to dial down outside voices to land on my next step. Otherwise, it’s a distracting cacophony competing with the little voice inside!😜
Each one of us has an individual journey to complete.
Only we should set the course, or else we give our power away.
It may seem logical to do what everyone else is doing or to go where everyone else is going. Or even to heed what you’re urged to do next.
But does your heart agree? Does it expand your soul? Did you stop and ask?
Pause and pivot as needed, on your way to expanding and expressing your best self.🌟
And wherever you are, I wish you well! Until we meet again….👋

The Wrap On The Next Chapter
When things feel like a grind, it’s a good sign that it’s time to slow down and even pause for a bit.
Whoever gets a map with a direct route from Point A, The Dream, to Point B, The Achievement? Anybody? 👎 Didn’t think so!
What brings us joy and fulfillment can and will evolve over time. Don’t be afraid to shift when your intuition nudges you to check out a different path.
I’m feeling that way with Medium (and perhaps with social media in general!) So a couple of upcoming trips will be the perfect time to figure things out.
Meanwhile, I’ll still be here weekly— I hope you’ll join me, too! 😊
~~~~~
Oh, and when you have six extra minutes (a two-cup coffee break) , do listen 🎧 to this Ted Talk brilliantly delivered by (gulp) a 16-year old! Hey, I’m willing to consider wisdom from some surprising resources. Halle shares some very compelling reminders about life journeys.

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Drink In The Respite and Renewal of Ordinary Present Moments
Take five for a new coffee break story!
The present moments feel satisfyingly full when I appreciate what a gift they truly are!
I’m referring to the mundane tasks, ordinary moments, and non-events that are legitimate parts of my day. Those commonplace aspects are invaluable counterparts that let the occasional extraordinary moments and thrilling activities shine. And they also give relief to my active squirrel brain, ha!
Young children and older adults seem to readily grasp the beauty of average present moments. The former are yet unburdened with the business and busyness of life. And the latter are wise to fewer days stretching ahead than behind; they no longer take any time for granted.
Today’s 2-minute Coffee Break Story celebrates our present moments! If you’re new to these tiny tales, they’re short form reads, 5-minutes or less. You’ll find links to prior #coffeebreakstories below.
For now, refill your cup, sit back, relax, and enjoy!
Present Moments Matter
Take time to relish the richness of everyday moments and ordinary days. The absence of noteworthy events creates a soothing space to decompress and Just Be —ahhh!
When we are in between what has happened and what has yet to transpire, our spirits can rest and renew before rising again.
After all, progress is not only about motion. It’s also about processing the wisdom attained along the way. It’s about making peace with our past, delighting in our present, and preparing for our future.
The most important relationship we can nurture is the one with ourselves.
After years of multitasking like a champ, it feels soulfully nourishing to lighten up with this grueling habit. I’m choosing to focus on one thing at a time. Well, I’m trying— it’s hard to break the twitch 😉
But I’m discovering how grounding it is to pay attention only to what’s around me … to immerse myself in the task at hand. Letting my mind wander can unexpectedly reveal some intriguing takes on emotions that have been swirling inside without resolution. That’s the genius of repetitive household tasks: cleaner house, clearer perspective!✨
Truthfully, the more I practice living in the now, the more I feel the sublime fullness of my ordinary days. The steady signaling from my five senses are actually registering more frequently instead of slipping by unnoticed when hustling. It’s meditative to absorb the details of my present moments: the low whirling of ceiling fan blades; the smooth folds of a silken skirt; dogs lightly dozing nearby; the wafting scent from my jasmine vine.
The months and years continue to fly, but I am committed to honoring more present moments daily. It’s truly a powerful practice of gratitude.
And maintaining a mindful cadence with my days also brings peace with what tomorrow will be.
A tenacious whirlwind or a tranquil breeze: I think there’s a time and a place for both, don’t you?

Coffee Story Wrap On Present Moments
We are served selected slices of other people’s stories all day long. It’s easy to get caught up in 24-7 cajoling to constantly be in motion with something exciting, admirable, or new. Sometimes, it makes our own ordinary days feel lacking. I don’t buy into that (any more), nor should you!
Slow down. Breathe. Step mindfully into your day.
Focus on your commonplace present moments and you’ll start to treasure just how invaluable they are.
+++ +++ +++
Make room for this soulful contemplation of the ordinary by the extraordinary Eckhart Tolle. His calm delivery lowers my blood pressure!
Head here to catch up with the kickoff of Coffee Break Stories.
And thanks for stopping by!

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What’s Love Got To Do With It? Everything!
Serving up a coffee break story!
Where is the love? If you’re like me, you’re feeling the weight of way too much anger and grief headlining the news. It’s exhausting and incredibly frustrating to witness or read about rampant deep divisiveness and tragedy unfolding. The negativity is a weight on our collective souls.
Which is why I’m focused on being a positive influence in all my social engagements. My reach may not extend far. But I know I impact each person I encounter.
More than ever before, we need to share Love!
Without Love, we disengage and build barriers. Silos form.
I don’t know anyone who can turn the current world trajectory around any time soon. But I do know that we can each take responsibility for how we as individuals interact with each other.
We can create little circles of love that begin rippling outward.
Won’t you join me?
Disclaimer: Today’s post is in no way intended as a political comment nor am I seeking political discourse here. Everyone is hurting. Everyone is troubled with the state of the world. Let’s focus on what we can do to soften the current mood. We can agree on that, no?

Every Day and Every Way, Love is the Answer
Love—Spread it!
Tag a friend
Tell a neighbor
Show a stranger
Set the example
. . .
Love—Rep it!
Listen
Learn
Respect
Forgive
. . .
Love in a time of turmoil and change—What does it mean to you?
The Wrap on Community Love
In an ever-changing world that never stops spinning, remember:
- We are wired to be connected, not compartmentalized
- Our energy impacts each other
- Our thoughts and beliefs fuel our words and actions
- Circle back here for a short story on the art of conversation
"Unity is not something we are called to create; it's something we are called to recognize."
P. S. I highly encourage you to save 12 minutes this weekend & listen to Starla Fitch —then you’ll know why I say to you, “sawubona” (I see you) ♥ and “sikhona” (I am here) ♥

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