There's a story that Isaac Stern, famous violinist, was approached by a fan after a show, gushing "Oh I'd give my life to play like you"...

"Lady", he answered, "I *did* give my life to play like that"....

The purpose of memorial day is to take a pause and remember/honor veterans who gave their lives in service.

No matter what your attitude towards the necessity of war or military as it presents in modern society...

Take a moment and consider how these energies live within you.

We all have our warrior archetype. And if you're reading this, you still have some life force to give.

The warrior fights for what they know is right.

The warrior protects those who cannot protect themselves.

The warrior perseveres in service of freedom, health, dignity, peace.

The warrior faces challenge, pain, risk.... DEATH.

And moves towards their goal anyway.

Historically, Samurai were said to "die before battle" - they contemplated their own death, and surrendered attachment to living, so they could fight even more fiercely.

What are your battles?

Maybe you have a health issue to power through, or a life challenge on "boss mode" hard.

Maybe you want to win an orchestra audition or stabilize your musical career doing what you dream of.

... Perhaps there is a deeply meaningful creative project or passion your soul insists on actualizing.

.... Maybe you are struggling in a toxic relationship to protect your inner child from being overwhelmed.

Whatever it is, your inner WARRIOR is here for you. Cultivate it. Set it loose on something that matters.

Would love to hear what would you or do you set your warrior archetype on?