by Joseph Roberts

The following is a stream of consciousness writing that was written in one sitting in the early morning. After finishing I curiously counted how many items there were. To my surprise and delight there were exactly 22. This was a shock because Common Ground was about to celebrate its 22nd
anniversary. CG has been an independent Canadian magazine dedicated to inspiration, health and creativity since 1982. The invisible hand was guiding the pen and the writing was coming through me rather than by me. A similar experience occurs when playing piano or guitar. There is a timeless place where all music, no, not just music comes from, but where all comes from.
A dear friend once asked when the lotus opens to the sun is it the sun that opens the flower? He then said it appears to be that way, but really it is the nature that is the sun and the flower that opens.
So here is a very personal and poetic list of my favourite things. Thank you for the visible and invisible kindness you have contributed to our existence. Your presence and caring support has helped my world. May my list help you remember what is dear to you. Consider writing your own list leading up to this New Year. It is good to remember and be grateful for all the wonder and love we have.

THE LIST

Favourite actor: you
Favourite movie: this world
Favourite musician: Mike Scott
Favourite book: The Power of Now
Favourite commandment:
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and body
Favourite rule: The Golden Rule,
love your neighbour as yourself
Favourite music: my own, but where it comes from is a mystery
Favourite day: today
Favourite place: here
Favourite lover: The Beloved
Favourite emotion: joyous wonder
Favourite destination: in your arms
Favourite kiss: presence
Favourite gift to myself: forgiveness
Favourite dessert: kissing
Favourite hello: your warm smile
Favourite novel: current one
Favourite restaurant: peace
Favourite dog: happy
Favourite opinion:
Favourite judgment: none
Favourite touch: yours

Thank you on behalf of all of us at Common Ground! You too are a miracle.

www.commonground.ca