The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse

Lessons from “The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse”

·      “I’ve learned how to be present”
“How?” asked the boy
“I find a quiet spot and shut my eyes and breathe”.
“That’s good, and then?”
“The I focus.”
“What do you focus on?”
“Cake”, said the mole.

Mindfulness – the basic human ability we all naturally possess to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on in the world around us.

How to be present – sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing or something pleasant, like cake. Start small with 1 minute and gradually work your way up to however long is comfortable for you. If your mind wanders (it’s ok, we’re all human), bring it back to your breath or your mantra.  

·      “Is your glass half empty or half full?” asked the mole.
“I think I’m grateful to have a glass”, said the boy.  

Gratitude – the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

How to practice gratitude – notice good things, look for them, appreciate them. Savor, absorb, and pay attention to those good things. Express gratitude towards yourself as well. Write it down, take pictures of what you’re grateful for, write a poem, tell someone about it.

·      “Sometimes”, said the horse.
“Sometimes what?” asked the boy.
“Sometimes just getting up and carrying on is brave and magnificent”.

Perseverance – persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.

How to practice perseverance – clarify your goal: base is on your needs and abilities. Acknowledge your accomplishments: take a look at how far you have come and everything you have achieved so far. Try new experiences: nothing changes if nothing changes, try something new. Self-care: care for your mind, body, emotions, and spirit.