It’s time.

I’m not sure why illustrated books are often dismissed as only for children.

Heart to Heart: A Conversation on Hope for Our Precious Planet from the Dalai Lama and Patrick McDonnell is written simply and it has illustrations, and while it can – and should – be shared with and read to your children, the message is for you!

“Everything is interdependent, everything is inseparable.

Our individual well-being is intimately connected both with that of all others and with the environment within which we live.

Our every action, our every deed, word, and thought, no matter how slight or inconsequential it may seem, has an implication not only for ourselves but for all others, too.

We are all interconnected in the universe, and from this, universal responsibility arises… Everyone has the responsibility to develop a happier world.

There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done.

One is called Yesterday, and the other is called Tomorrow.

Today is the right day to love, believe, do, and mostly to live positively to help others.”

This book of elemental wisdom and kindness ends with this prayer from the Dalai Lama:

“May I become at all times, both now and forever,
A protector for those without protection
A guide for those who have lost their way
A ship for those with oceans to cross
A bridge for those with rivers to cross
A sanctuary for those in danger
A lamp for those without light
A place of refuge for those who lack shelter
And a servant to all in need.

For as long as space endures,
And for as long as living beings remain,
Until then may I, too, abide
To dispel the misery of the world.”

Read it. Give it to friends. Spread this message.