Sacred Belonging: Cultivating Love and Authorship Through Daily Practice

After I recover from the stunning images of Whittier Mikkelsen [this is my friend’s daughter] on pages 56–61, these words from Simran Jeet Singh sit in my mind:

“You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to understand that what we do informs who we become and how happy we are. We make decisions every single day that shape our being. . .

If we eat well and exercise regularly, we will be fit. . .

If we think positively, we will be optimistic.

And if we practice love every single day, we will be loving.

On the other hand, if an idea sits in our head but we never put it into practice, it has little impact on our lives and never becomes a part of who we are.

If we think about eating well but continue to eat junk food, we won’t be healthy. . .

It’s foolish to think that we might become more loving without bringing love into our lives as a daily practice. So the question we must ask ourselves is straightforward: What can we do to cultivate love in our lives?”

That question about cultivating love stayed with me, and it led me to another book on my shelf and a different kind of daily practice, one of authorship rather than affection. I’ll close with one more quote for us to think about:

“To live well is to be the author of your own life,” p. 287.

Carissa Veliz, Prophecy: Prediction, Power, and the Fight for the Future, from Ancient Oracles to AI, Doubleday, 2026.

Thank you for reading. — JoAnnLordahl.com

Dr. Jo Ann Lordahl is a lifelong author, poet, novelist, and speaker whose work explores empowerment, aging with grace, and the deep questions that define our lives. Her books and reflections — from historical fiction to meditations on creative living — encourage resilience, reflection, and positive transformation.

If this post stirs questions about moral courage, shared humanity, or the work of healing in hard times, consider exploring Dr. Lordahl’s writing — especially her essays and books on reflection and personal transformation. Her voice reminds us that even in upheaval, there is a path toward patience, insight, and compassionate action.