When she was reporting on a full time basis, the writer Joan Didion said she used to have this dossier taped to her door. It was a packing list of what to bring — a list she could quickly check off without thinking, and begin her journey. I love it because I find myself doing the same thing. Not for a suitcase, but for my heart, my mind. 

Challenges rarely announce themselves, they merely show up at the door, so I need my list ready. I don’t want to think about it. It goes a little something like this:

Are you in immediate danger?   No.

Are you physically hurt?  No.

Are you capable?   Yes.

Are you loved?   Yes.

Do you love?   Yes.

Is life still good?   Yes.

Do you want to keep going?   Yes.

What haven’t you survived?   Nothing.

Packed, I reach for the door handle, and begin.