Continuing to use Angeles Arrien’s book, Living In Gratitude as our inspiration, we look at equanimity for the month of June. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, it means “calmness and composure, especially in a difficult situation. In theory – All the major spiritual traditions of the world regard equanimity as central to their teachings.  A modern definition of equanimity: cool. This refers to one whose mind remains stable & calm in all situations.

“When force of circumstance upsets your equanimity, loose no time in recovering your self-control, and do not remain out of tune longer than you can help. Habitual recurrence to the harmony will increase your mastery of it.”  ~ Marcus Aurelius Antoninus

“Gratitude, not understanding, is the secret to joy and equanimity.”  ~ Ann Lamott

Due to the tragic April Boston Marathon bombings it is heartfelt that this month’s chapter,“Gift of Grace” from Angeles Arrien’s book Living with Gratitude A Journey That Will Change Your Life, has us explore the relationship between gratitude and grace. She writes “The destiny and true grace of all creation is inter-communion.  This sense of unity, interconnectedness, and belonging accentuates the experience of gratitude, awe, and wonder within us.”

Below is the Boston Magazine’s May issue cover.  These are the shoes gathered from the courageous runners participating in the marathon.  This dynamic photo represents the runners’ “Gift of Grace” to the nation.  The nation has already responded by their “Gratitude” regarding this photo’s powerful message.

Go the following link to learn more behind the May Boston Magazine cover:

 http://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/blog/2013/04/25/behind-our-may-boston-marathon-cover/