The things that bring life— that make our hearts burn bright. Writing gives me energy, but not solely without reading what others are writing. When I’m tired or feeling morose, I turn on the writer’s faucet. Most times… instantly, I will feel better. It’s just a matter of pulling myself off the couch and sitting in front of that empty page.

I enjoy visiting bookstores and museums, and seeing what others have laid onto their once blank canvases. I like stepping into their other people’s minds. Reading word by word, whether it’s imagism, fiction, non-fiction, or whatever may it be, I piece it all together like a little puzzle. Surrealism reflects life itself, and at times, life feels like nothing but a dream.

I love the feel of a high-quality garment running through my hands—like this French lace and linen blouse I recently acquired from Paris. “Dress for success” is true! When you wear what makes you feel good, you carry yourself with more confidence. More confidence brings more energy. I also adore the scent of red berries and honey in this new Italian perfume I acquired. Italian perfumes just get me. The compliments when I wear it do not hurt either! 

Stepping out of the material realm, I remember watching the rain as it fell heavily, creating tiny geysers of fresh and saltwater during a warm evening swim in Jamaica. An older German woman floating beside me said, “This is LIFE!” Sometimes, what brings us energy—positive energy at that—is like turning to see the rainbow after a storm. It’s about recognizing that I am the only thing standing between the sun and the clouds. It’s up to me to acknowledge the darkness and turn toward the light, being aware of both, and seeing the beauty of it all.

A helping hand and sincere generosity. Knowing when to give and when to refill your own cup. It’s a never-ending swing of the pendulum, trying to avoid burnout. Because when you care deeply, it happens. Empathy and sensitivity can be a blessing and a curse. A good fix can be a pounding heart after a good workout. Getting the energy moving. With stagnancy, there is never room for growth. I like digging my hands into the earth. Something only children and gardeners do. Feeling the earth brings energy. I once read an article from a shaman who say that we can give the earth the energy we no longer need. The earth will transmute the energy into a neutral energy and use it for other causes. I believe there is truth in this. Whether it is placebo or not, it works! I like the sound and feel of sticks breaking underfoot on a trail hike. Climbing a mountain, and enjoying a view. Watching the ocean waves crash, seeing the beauty and strength of the sea. Stepping in from a cold day into a warmth of a house filled with the smells of a home-cooked meal, and sharing it with others. The flickering flame of a candle on table. The designs cast from the light and the shadows surrounding the candle of a dimly lit room. The loudness of fireworks in San Francisco’s Chinatown which scare away evil spirits and bring good fortune and wealth. And an evening of quiet solitude. Reading just before bed.

I suppose what gives energy is just a never-ending balance, isn’t it? The point is, we have energy all around us. We can use it, and delight in its many forms.

-Keri