Waking up, and a little later than usual, I might add; my mind was clear, focused, and I realized that I forgot to turn the page of the calendar to begin a new month. As I reached for that thumb tack to turn back the old month, the head of the tack glazed my finger ever so slightly. It made me aware of the fact that October was behind me, and now there was November to begin.

As I looked back, I thought about what I could say about October (other than Halloween) that had made some remarkable difference to me. So much happens to each and every one of us, day after day, improving the quality of our lives, or giving us a window for gratitude.

For me, October was a time when I was able to make amends to someone for my own poor behavior. It had taken many years for this opportunity to be presented to me, but once it was there, it was as if something magical had taken hold of my being, swirling around through my inner soul, and allowing a peaceful place to be created in my heart.

Apologizing to others is no easy task. It requires honesty and willingness to say we are wrong, and that we have acted poorly, without expectation of anything in return. (i.e. the other person saying I know, I accept what you did and I forgive you or understand). In my case, the apology was met with silence, but the peace and serenity that I found from my own act was worth more than any words that could be given to me in exchange.

Our greatest gifts, are a quite mind and peaceful heart.