We remind ourselves that to see what’s happening clearly we can step back and take a look at the big picture with an open mind and without jumping to conclusions.

We remind ourselves that what we do and say can affect other people and the planet, and what other people say and do can affect the planet and us.

We remind ourselves that we can watch, listen, sense, interpret, and respond to what other people say and do so that we see and understand them, and they feel seen and understood.

We remind ourselves that we can choose where to place our attention, and we can keep it there.

We remind ourselves that we can investigate what’s happening within and around us with a more open mind when we hold back from reacting to whatever’s happening automatically.

When we remember to appreciate our relationships, our health, our good experiences, our belongings, and the natural world, we see that appreciation is a way to see everything in ways that bring about more happiness.

We remind ourselves that we can’t know or control the causes or circumstances that lead up to each moment. We can accept that the moment is what it is, though, and do our best to speak and act in a way that’s wise and compassionate.