Here are the 3 C’s of being present in your own life, and the rewards they bring.

1. Consciousness:  Be awake in your own life

Living with awareness—of your thoughts, emotions, habits, and daily choices.

How to practice:

• Pause and Notice: Begin each day with a moment of stillness. Ask, “How am I feeling? What matters today?”
• Reflect Regularly: Journal, meditate, or walk in silence. These simple practices help you notice patterns and live more intentionally.
• Learn and Unlearn: Stay curious. Read, ask questions, and be open to changing your mind.
• Live in Alignment: Make choices that reflect your values. Let your actions match your beliefs.

2. Compassion: Lead with your Heart

Meeting yourself and others with kindness, especially in moments of struggle.

How to practice:

• Listen Deeply: Offer presence, not solutions.  Often, just being there is enough.
• Drop Judgment: Start with empathy, not critique. Ask, “What might this person be going through?”
• Include Yourself: Your pain counts too. Extend the same gentleness to yourself as you would to a friend. Selfcare is vital.
• Respond, Don’t React: Breathe before you speak. Choose calm over control. Pausing never fails
• Community: Belong Where You Are

Recognizing our shared humanity and showing up for each other.

How to practice:

• Make Contact: Smile, say hello, reach out, always ask how someone else is doing. Small gestures create connection.
• Be Present: Whether at a family dinner, support group, or neighborhood event—be fully there.
• Give and Receive: Offer help when you can. Ask for support when you need it. Care for the caregiver is critical.
• Widen the Circle: Include the lonely, the overlooked, the newcomer. Community grows through welcome.

When you root your life in Consciousness, Compassion, and Community, you don’t just live longer—you live deeper, richer, and more connected. These aren’t abstract ideals. They are daily choices that help us become who we’re meant to be, together.