It was clear to me (or my nose, at least) that the man had urinated on himself. The smell was pungent; there was something about his corduroys that seemed to infuse the potency. In the midst of my feelings of repulsion, the voice in my head whispered a single word: "dignity." For reasons that I cannot adequately explain, I remained in my seat. The bus was crowded with morning commuters. Every seat was occupied. I considered the option to stand, but considered the value of momentary discomfort. To stand for myself would be a stand for alienation of this being who for reasons unknown could not or did not control his bladder. I did not know his story nor was I willing to engage a story that would put me "above" him (which would have been easy for me to do). I may not be able to heal this man of his ills or even understand his challenges, but I could give him the only thing that seemed readily available--a few minutes of dignity. True, there is a judgment around believing that this was a necessary or noticeable action in his eyes, but something told me it was the most compassionate response for both of us.

Notice the stories that accompany the people that you meet, see and interact with today. Are you using assumptions from your own past, values and experiences to brand those around you? Do these stories honor and serve those around you or are they simply a way for you to manage your own discomfort with the unknown?

Success or sabotage? True, lasting success requires the ability for objectivity--to see and invest with clear choices, rather than sabotaging opportunity with a "dusty" lens.

Is this going to be an incredible day? If you release the judgment that you carry about yourself and others, what kind of day will it be?