i think learning new ways of thinking and being are like learning to walk. when a toddler tries to walk and repeatedly falls over, we don't say they failed at walking. we are tickled pink that they tried. if they hit their head, we tell them it's okay and give them kisses. when they try again we encourage the attempts.

and one day that little toddler is running around.

i wish sometimes we could remember that grace with ourselves. i'm still learning to walk and in my case, with depression, that's a health condition that may mean my walking is delayed, that i fall more times, that i have to have some extra help, but you know what. it's about the trying and not about the falling.

and not one word of encouragement, or one moment of listening is wasted just because someone falls over.

take your time. be kind to yourself.