Those who make a difference in the world are those who improve the lives of others, who choose the “practice of the better” (thank you KBar and Richard Rhor).

Over the last year, I’ve gone from serving in one place to serving in many places. From making a difference through one container, to trying to make a difference in the world.

The best part of this change is the freedom to choose what you do and don’t do. The hardest part is building community along the way. You also have to be good at communicating what you’re doing so people can come along, support, pray for you.

These are the simple ways in which I’m seeking to “practice the better”:

1. Core. Love my wife and spend time with our children

2. Prioritize Self. Running, yoga, lifting, eating healthy, sleep, rest, create, meditate, down time

3. Spirit. My own spiritual disciplines, love creator God, be a child of God versus doing things for God, love Jesus with all my heart, mind and soul and my neighbor as myself

4. Friendships. My therapist, friends at work, mentors, friends in Colorado, music friends.

5. Prayers and Mentors. The prayers of my mother, the memories and examples of my father and abuelita.

6. Education. Continuing to sharpen the saw, strengthening the mind

7. Music. Create, write, record, showing up

8. Service to others. Spending time with John my neighbor

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Sometimes it feels easier to go back to what I used to do, what I used to know. But I’m convinced that what’s necessary is not to look back or wish for the past, but to move forward while building community with those around you.