Though I find it hard to believe, the first month of 2026 is at an end. Of course, we never know what will be, but I must admit my expectations did not come anywhere near where we are today. Every thought leader I have read or listened to is reminding us that from dark times we have emerged. That this is another pendulum swing in our civilization's evolution. And while I believe this to be true, taking action towards raising our consciousness, compassion, and pursuit of happiness remains a challenge. At the heart of Buddhism is the concept of the three afflictions that contribute to our cyclical nature of suffering. Attraction or craving: a situation where a source of pleasure can become a cause of suffering. Aversion: a condition where not wanting what is can cause mental afflictions. And finally, Ignorance: which could be not caring, addiction, or a misunderstanding of the reality we are experiencing. All are conditions created in our minds and the good news is that we can change our minds! The leaders of our world are suffering from acute Ignorance and Fear, and they are experts in promoting it to others. We can counter this by our own work at shifting this belief system. We have the resources and ability to create a world where all are welcome, well cared for and happy. The miraculous true nature of reality is that we are all interconnected at an energetic level and that the infinity of space mirrors our eternal existence. When we are exposed to worldly concerns for such an infinitesimal amount of time, why choose to focus on death and dying as opposed to life and living? Our challenge, I believe, is to make the best of our time here, not the worst. A simple concept, but a difficult practice...such is the path of light workers!