✨KITTING AROUND✨
BLOG 388–FRESH PERSPECTIVES
Always keep getting better than yesterday!
Learn more about me >> https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
This Blog is Best Read on a Laptop, Rather than Your Phone.
By KIT SUMMERS — World-Class Juggler to World-Class Comeback
Once upon a life, I made gravity nervous— Thirty-seven silent days offstage.
Seven of them. A world record— But throwing purpose, grit, and joy.
Because physics loves a good insult. Balancing healing.
Then came the truck—the coma. 😄 Tossing hope sky-high. 🤹♂️
Bigger than applause. What’s next on Kit’s journey?
Now I lift humans. Back to juggling? Back to life?
Writing is how I breathe. Stay with Kit and find out.
If these words help you, too? Life can get better.
That’s magic catching air. 🎉 Life will get better! ✨
=======================
My new address here is >> kitsummers.com
Kit Summers kitsummers@gmail.com
The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve.
18600 Highwoods Preserve Pkwy, #217
Tampa, FL 33647
Stop by for a visit when you can.
https://www.legacypreservetampa.com/
A love letter would be dandy.
Call me >> 610-400-3233
=========================
PART 1) THE BEGINNINGS
I FEEL THAT THIS IS MY BEST BLOG.
DAILY–IT’S A NEW DAY, IT’S A NEW LIFE.
DON’T LIVE IN THE FUTURE OR THE PAST —
MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT YOU’RE HOLDING RIGHT NOW!
I just heard this, and it is important >>
“Happiness is not about getting all that you want.
It’s about enjoying all that you have.”
And, do you?
==========
I heard this from my friend, Greg Jorner >>
“Hi Kit. I just spent about 15 minutes perusing your blog. It’s far more than I have time to read completely. However, I’m interested in a few things…. The last time I really read one of your blogs, you were living in your van. I remember that you and your wife/girlfriend had split up. You are now living in a communal setting. And at a cost of almost 6K USD per month! That’s quite a change. How did you get insurance to pay for that? Anyway, you seem happy, and that’s a good thing. I’m glad that you’re still contributing to the world. Hope that all is well with you, Kit.”
Good to get your words, Greg. Thanks for taking some time to. Yes, big changes throughout my life. Insurance covers the costs; that’s a good thing. My daughters, April and Jasmine, set this up for me.
===========
And, I heard from Ray Stern>>
https://ray-garden.blogspot.com
I met Ray through gardening, who wrote:
Kit – Are you living the life you encourage others to live?
“Your last couple of blogs are about the food served, being in your room, and writing. Maybe there’s more, but it’s not being shared. Have you been outside? Are you taking walks? Juggling? Meeting anyone outside the cafeteria? Are you planning to buy a bicycle? Doing anything about a veggie garden on the grounds? What’s happening besides eating, typing, and watching movies or YouTube? Is this what you left the other place for?
Are you following your own advice?”
Nice to hear from you, Ray. You are one of those people whom I don’t know very well, but you still write to me. How many others are there who read my words, yet they don’t send me words? I would love to hear from you — I hope I do. I’m glad you care. Living at this new place is kind of crazy for me. I’m doing what I can to fit in, but it’s difficult. Thanks for the gentle kick to get back to life. I want to build a garden, but it is hard to wait for them. I might try another way.
No, Ray, I’m not living the life that I write about. For now, I am mainly staying in my room to work on my writings. Thanks for caring, my friend. More people read my blog than I realize.
============================
PART 2) THINGS THAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK
Kit’s Daily Delight Inspiration–Served Playfully.
Ray’s winter garden
Good morning! Or good afternoon… or good evening. One of the wonderful things about words is that they never complain or expire when they’re read a little late. With readers in all time zones around the world, I really don’t know what time it is there now.
>>>>>July 24
The blog was sent out today. I hope you liked the read.
For meals, I am eating less and less. For dinner, I asked for just 1/3 cup of milk and ate just one chicken finger (I never knew that chickens have fingers). I want to eat l just enough, I feel like I eat too much right now.
>>>>>July 25
Breakfast was the usual. I am not seeing much change around here. All the other people seem to run their lives without change, just forging ahead. Focusing on writing this blog takes my mind to a different place.
It’s 11 am now. An upcoming pizza lunch is planned for about noon. I will let you know. I am so focused on my next blog for you that it will be difficult to pull away. It is on the third floor, where I reside. I showed up in my bare feet. That upset some people. I came back and put on my slaps (flip-flops), which are about the same, but they were ok with that.
Pizza would have been good, but they only had large sandwiches. Even nice menus were printed. Two choices, turkey or Italian, that’s it. I had the Italian, which was a good sandwich. There is someone here who likes to print in three-color ink, which is unnecessary and wasteful.
PIZZA?
It’s still strange to be with people who are twenty or more years older than me. There was limited seating, so I gave up my seat twice to let others sit. I brought my food back to my room and ate here. Still hard for me to eat with no lower teeth. A miserable life — humm. I really don’t know what to think, Ray.
I still don’t feel like I fit in here. I feel like a youngster amongst older folk. But what’s next for Kit? I just went to the happy hour they have each Saturday. It didn’t make me that happy. Once again, it made me analyze my life and wonder whether I will have a future that would be pleasing.
Every Saturday at 3 pm, they have a happy hour (which is about an hour long). I had a plastic cup of light beer. I just sat there like I didn’t fit in, drinking my beer. I had shown up barefoot, and they shunned my feet and seemed disgusted by that.
HAPPY TIME
But you know, older people. I went and got my slaps, then they were fine with that. I have been inside; there’s nothing to get my feet dirty here. It was just too “different” for them. Yes, I do what’s sensible, but this is just a little too much for me. Perhaps another time I will just show up naked, then what will they say?
>>>>>July 26
Breakfast was the usual this morning, and then the day settled into its familiar rhythm. Many of the people here don’t do very much, and that’s okay. Everyone is on a different journey, facing different challenges and living with different abilities. We all move through life at our own pace, and there is no single path that fits everyone. I find purpose in writing, learning, and sharing ideas that encourage others to live a little better each day.
As for me, I keep coming back to this keyboard. Writing gives my days purpose. My goal is to share words that encourage and inspire you, helping you see your own life a little differently. If even one thought in these blogs brightens your day, gives you hope, or nudges you toward becoming a better version of yourself, then every hour spent writing has been worthwhile.
THE DAY IS STARTING
The sun is rising on the far side of the building, painting the morning with the promise of a brand-new day. From my window, I can see a beautiful, clear blue sky stretching from one horizon to the other. There isn’t a cloud in sight, and everything feels fresh, peaceful, and full of possibility.
Moments like this remind me that every sunrise is a quiet invitation to begin again. Yesterday is behind me, tomorrow has not yet arrived, but today offers endless opportunities. A clear sky has a way of clearing my mind, encouraging me to greet the day with gratitude, hope, and a smile. 😀
As I sit here looking through my writings, I notice that the pages ahead are still blank. Nothing is written there yet because those days haven’t happened. They still belong to the future, waiting quietly for life to unfold.
WRITING
There’s something beautiful about those empty pages. They remind me that tomorrow hasn’t been decided. New experiences, unexpected friendships, fresh lessons, and moments of joy are still waiting to be discovered. Every sunrise gives me another opportunity to add a new chapter to my story.
I can’t write tomorrow’s pages today because they haven’t been lived. All I can do is embrace this moment, make the most of today, and trust that tomorrow will bring new adventures worth writing about. One day at a time, those blank pages will slowly fill with memories, lessons, laughter, and the life I choose to live.
TODAY, TOMORROW?
Some days remind me just how much life can change.
This morning, I went outside with three juggling clubs, looking forward to practicing and running a little afterward. But almost immediately, I knew something was wrong.
I could barely keep the clubs moving. The rhythm I’ve known for so much of my life wasn’t there. Then my asthma flared up, too, and any thought of running disappeared.
ASTHMA
I had to head back to my room and reach for my inhaler—what I jokingly call my “breath freshener.” Humor helps, but today it couldn’t completely hide my disappointment. It’s hard when your mind remembers what your body once did so effortlessly.
Still, I refuse to let one difficult morning define me. Life has taught me, time and again, that setbacks are only temporary visitors—they are never permanent residents. They may knock on the door, stay a while, and test my patience, but eventually they leave. What remains is the person who chose to keep going. So I’ll learn from today, get up tomorrow, and take another step forward. That’s how progress is made. That’s how better happens.
Today may have slowed me down, but it hasn’t taken away my determination. Tomorrow I’ll try again. If all I can do is juggle for a minute instead of ten, or walk instead of run, that’s still a step forward. Some days we celebrate progress. Other days, we celebrate perseverance. Today is one of those perseverance days. Not every effort succeeds, and not every day brings a breakthrough.
Sometimes the victory is simply refusing to quit. Even when the results aren’t there, showing up, trying again, and moving forward is enough. Tomorrow may bring progress, but today I’ll celebrate perseverance.
RUNNING — JUGGLING
Juggling has been in my blood for as long as I can remember. It has been part of my identity, my career, and my joy. But today, I couldn’t seem to find it in any blood vessel. The clubs refused to cooperate, my timing disappeared, and even my body seemed to say, “Not today.”
NOT TODAY
Days like this are humbling. They remind me that success isn’t measured only by the days when everything comes easily. Sometimes the greatest victory is simply showing up, giving it your best effort, and refusing to quit.
Tomorrow will bring another chance, another throw, and another opportunity to improve. And when that day comes, I’ll be out there again—with clubs in my hands, hope in my heart, and a smile on my face. With a little luck, my running will go well, too. No matter what happens, I’ll keep moving forward, one step and one throw at a time.
TOMORROW
How will the clubs fly tomorrow? I don’t know—and that’s part of the adventure. Maybe they’ll soar with grace. Maybe they’ll tumble to the ground. Either way, I’ll be there, learning, laughing, and refusing to quit. Because the real victory isn’t in never dropping a club; it’s in always being willing to pick it up again.
LUNCH
Lunch today was a chicken salad sandwich, and it was quite tasty. Since I don’t have any lower teeth, it was also easy for me to eat, which is always a welcome bonus. Fortunately, it’s one of the items that’s always available on the menu, so I can count on it whenever I want something that’s both enjoyable and easy to manage. Sometimes it’s the simple things—a good meal that doesn’t require a struggle—that make the day just a little brighter.
See me? I’m right in front!
DINNER
Now it’s tomorrow morning, and I’ve already forgotten what I ate last night.
It’s something I should remember.
Do you remember what you ate last night?
How about two nights ago?
Most of us can’t. Our brains are designed to hold on to what matters most, and an ordinary dinner rarely makes the list. It’s a gentle reminder that much of life slips quietly into the past. That’s one more reason to savor today’s moments while they’re happening. The conversations, the laughter, the sunsets, and the people we love are the memories worth creating—because those are the ones most likely to stay with us.
When I went down for dinner tonight, someone was sitting at my usual table, and the place was quite full. One gentleman was already sitting there, so I asked if I could take the empty seat. He nodded, and I sat down.
We ate our meals just a few feet apart, yet not a single word was spoken. No “hello,” no smile, no “have a good evening.” When he finished eating, he simply stood up and walked away. It made me wonder: How do people become so disconnected from one another?
I have noticed that all the residents here are light-skinned.
You may notice I don’t write black or white, mainly because none of us is just white or just black.
We each have a different skin tone that is ours alone. Many of the staff here are darker-skinned. Not sure what that means, but…
Then I reminded myself that I don’t know his story. He may be shy, struggling with his health, dealing with memory problems, or simply having a difficult day. We all carry burdens that aren’t visible to others.
Still, I hope I never lose my desire to connect with people. A smile, a greeting, or a few friendly words can brighten someone’s day more than we realize. Life is too short to pass one another like strangers when a simple “hello” can remind us that we’re all traveling this journey together.
>>>>>July 27
Up early, as usual. Today was one of my two weekly spa days—Monday and Thursday. I hopped into the shower, scrubbed away the grime, and now my skin is sending me thank-you notes. Amazing what a little soap and water can do!
I may only shower twice a week, but when I do, I make it count.
My deodorant is probably breathing a sigh of relief, too. 😄
Some days are filled with adventures.
Other days are wonderfully ordinary.
Today is one of those ordinary days. Nothing remarkable happened. No great accomplishments. No exciting stories to tell. I’m still here, still thinking, still writing, and still grateful for another sunrise and another opportunity to share a few words with you.
I’ve learned that life isn’t made up only of unforgettable moments. Most of our lives are built from quiet days like this one. The challenge isn’t waiting for something exciting to happen—it’s learning to appreciate the simple gift of being alive. Every ordinary day is another chance to smile, learn something new, encourage someone else, or take one small step toward becoming a better person.
So, if your day seems uneventful too, don’t underestimate it.
Quiet days have value.
They give us time to breathe, reflect, and recharge.
Then prepare for whatever tomorrow may bring.
Nothing much to write about today.
I’m still here.
>>>>>July 28
A slow start to the day, but that’s all right—the day is still young, and there’s plenty of time for something wonderful to happen.
VOICE TYPING
This morning, I discovered Windows Voice Typing, and it’s about to change the way I write. I can’t believe I didn’t find it sooner! From now on, much of this blog may be spoken instead of typed. If you’d like to try it yourself, simply press Windows + H and start talking. It’s surprisingly easy. Give it a try and let me know what you think.
I’m already enjoying it. I spend countless hours pounding away on the keyboard, so this could give my fingers a well-earned vacation. Of course, now they’re looking at me as if to ask, “So… are we unemployed?” My fingers and I will just sit here together, staring at the keyboard, waiting to see if we’re ever needed again. Then again… knowing me, they’ll probably be back to work in about five minutes! 😄
I look out the window and see a cloudy day. Not sure what to make of it–life will go on. Still not sure why I’m here, or how I’ll get out. For now, the focus is on meals, of all things. I’m using voice typing, then I have to go back and edit some words. But that’s OK.
ON TO CHAT
After I finish voice typing, I run my words through ChatGPT to polish them and make sure everything says exactly what I want. It catches little mistakes, smooths out rough spots, and often helps me express an idea more clearly and powerfully than I could on the first try.
I don’t see technology as a replacement for creativity—I see it as a partner. Voice typing lets my thoughts flow naturally, and ChatGPT helps shape those thoughts into their best form. Together, they allow me to spend less time wrestling with the keyboard and more time focusing on the ideas I want to share.
I’ve always believed in using the best tools available to do a job well. Whether it’s juggling clubs, writing books, or inspiring others, the right tools can make a good result even better. If a tool helps me communicate more clearly and reach more people, I’m all for it. Why make life harder than it needs to be?
TOOLS
Right now, I want to use Windows voice typing—but there’s one small problem. I have nothing to say. It’s a funny predicament to be in. Here I am with a tool that lets me speak my thoughts effortlessly, and my mind has suddenly decided to take the morning off.
WORDS
So, if you were in my chair, what would you write about? What topic would you enjoy reading? Your suggestion may become tomorrow’s blog post. Until then, I’ll keep talking. Sometimes the best ideas don’t appear until after we’ve started speaking. Perhaps the hardest part of writing isn’t finding the words—it’s deciding which ones deserve to come out first.”
It seems too long. Now that I know about voice typing, will my blog become longer? There is no reason to add more words. I hope it’s all right with you. It’s just so easy to use the voice type. I’ll use it often now.
FIRE!
This morning, the fire alarm went off again. I stayed right in my room. It didn’t bother me in the least. After hearing so many false alarms during my time at NeuroRestorative, I’ve become immune to them. A little later, I went downstairs to see what had happened. As expected, there was nothing to be concerned about. Just another alarm, another interruption, and then life went on as usual.
Repeated experiences change us. Years ago, I would have reacted differently. Now I stay calm, assess the situation, and avoid unnecessary panic. If there ever is a real fire, I’ll deal with it then. Until that day comes, I’m not going to let every alarm set my heart racing.
They came to every room to test the fire alarm. I have to admit, it was a very alarming experience. The good news is that the alarm worked perfectly. The bad news is that so did my heartbeat. At least now we know the system is doing its job. I just wish it didn’t have to prove it quite so enthusiastically!
HEY DOC
Today I went to see my primary doctor. I’ll be seeing him again on September 1. He found a few things that need to be addressed, including an issue with my blood work. Right now, I don’t know all the details, but we’ll go over everything at my next appointment.
Like so many moments in life, this is simply another step in the journey. None of us knows exactly what lies around the next bend, but we all have a choice in how we face it. I choose to face it with curiosity rather than fear, determination rather than worry, and hope rather than doubt.
Whatever the doctor discovers, I’ll deal with it one step at a time. I’ll learn what I need to learn, make whatever changes are necessary, and keep moving forward. Life has taught me that every challenge carries a lesson, and every setback offers another opportunity to grow stronger.
My next appointment is on September 1, and after I know more, I’ll let you know what I find out. Until then, I’ll keep doing what I’ve always tried to do—live each day as fully as I can, keep smiling, and keep moving forward.
Like so many things in life, this is simply another step along the journey. Every challenge brings a lesson, every setback offers an opportunity to grow, and every new piece of information helps me make better decisions. This doctor’s visit is just one more chapter in a life that has already taught me the value of perseverance.
I’LL FACE WHATEVER COMES
Whatever comes, I’ll face it the same way I’ve faced so many obstacles before—with curiosity instead of fear, determination instead of discouragement, and the belief that I can adapt to whatever lies ahead. I’ll learn what I need to learn, do what I need to do, and keep moving forward, one step at a time.
I’ll let you know what I discover after my next appointment. Until then, I’ll keep doing my best to live well, stay positive, and remember that progress isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about continuing the journey, no matter what the road looks like.
LUNCH
Today I skipped lunch. I simply wasn’t hungry, and I’ve been eating more than I need lately. One thing I’ve noticed is that the portions here are almost always too large. Many people think giving someone extra food is a generous gesture, especially when they aren’t paying for it themselves. But to me, more isn’t always better.
I’d much rather have a meal that’s the right size than one that’s twice as big. Oversized portions often lead to food waste or to me eating more than my body really needs. I’d rather leave the table feeling satisfied than stuffed. Sometimes, less really is more.
Hmm, too much writing —
Let me know.
I don’t know what to leave out.
Dinner tonight was cheese tortellini, and it hit the spot. One thing I’ve noticed is that the kitchen staff has finally figured me out. They now bring me much smaller portions, and I’m happy about that.
DINNER
When I first moved here, they served me mountains of food—far more than I could ever eat. I hated seeing so much go to waste, so I kept asking for smaller portions. It looks like my polite persistence finally paid off.
There are people here who gladly accept those huge servings, so it’s not surprising that many struggle with being overweight. When oversized portions become the norm and physical activity is limited, the results are easy to see. It’s a reminder that our daily choices—how much we eat and how much we move—quietly shape the lives we live.
It’s a good reminder that positive change rarely happens overnight. Sometimes it takes speaking up with kindness, exercising patience, and refusing to give up. Keep asking. Keep believing. Keep moving forward. Now and then, the world actually listens—and when it does, even small changes can make a big difference.
>>>>>July 29
Every new day gives me another blank page to fill with thoughts, lessons, questions, and discoveries. Some days, the words come easily. Other days, I have to search for them. But I keep showing up, because every day has something worth noticing, and every experience has the potential to teach us something. So, welcome to another day—and another blog. I’m glad you’re here.
As long as I wake up with another sunrise to greet, I’ll keep writing. I’ll keep sharing what I learn, celebrating the victories, laughing at the surprises, and finding meaning in the ordinary moments—one day at a time, one blog at a time, one life lesson at a time.
Looking back at yesterday’s post, I noticed I may have gotten a little carried away with the number of words. I started using voice typing to make writing easier—not necessarily longer… or did I?
VOICE TYPING
Voice typing has simply unleashed my inner chatterbox. Once I start talking, the words line up and march onto the page without asking permission. I’ll never tell. You’ll just have to decide for yourself. If tomorrow’s post is twice as long, you’ll have your answer!
Today, I officially authorized moving forward with the video about my story.
THE MOVIE !!
Watching the trailer filled me with excitement. The team did an outstanding job. They captured the heart of my journey—the struggles, the determination, and, most importantly, the hope. Seeing pieces of my life come together on the screen made me realize this dream is becoming something real.
I don’t know what the next steps will be, but that’s okay. Every worthwhile journey is made one step at a time. Today was an important one.
For years, I’ve wanted to share my story in a way that could encourage people to keep going, no matter what life throws at them. If this film inspires even one person to refuse to give up, it will have been worth the effort. If it inspires thousands—or even millions—that would be beyond anything I ever imagined.
The trailer is only the beginning, but it’s a very encouraging beginning. Things are moving forward, and that’s a wonderful feeling. Sometimes progress doesn’t come with fireworks. Sometimes it comes with one signature, one decision, and one more step toward a dream.
Today, that dream moved a little closer.
https://youtu.be/G4qaG2yi7hI
>>>>July 30
Today I’ve been working on a letter to publishers, inviting them to take over the publishing of my books. I’m excited about the possibilities ahead. After years of writing and building an audience on my own, the time is right to partner with a publisher who can help these books reach many more readers. Every great journey begins with a single letter, and today, that’s exactly where the next chapter begins.
JWF
My first self-published book, Juggling with Finesse, has sold more than 25,000 copies worldwide. I’m proud of that accomplishment, but I believe it’s only the beginning. If and when a movie about my life is released, it could introduce my story to millions of people. Many of them will want to learn more, and that’s where my books come in. I see 25,000 copies not as the finish line, but as the foundation for something much bigger.
FESTIVAL?
Today, they held what they called a “Carnival Jubilee.” It was designed more for children than for the people who actually live here. There were prizes, corn dogs, popcorn, soda, colorful decorations, and plenty of carnival-style touches. Many of the younger staff members appeared to enjoy it, and it even seemed as though a few children had been brought in to help create the atmosphere.
From my perspective, though, it missed the mark. Most of the residents didn’t seem especially interested, and the excitement faded quickly. The event began at 2:00 p.m. and was supposed to last until sometime after 4:00, but by about 2:30 it was essentially over.
As I looked around, I couldn’t help thinking about all the planning, decorations, flyers, food, and money that went into making it happen. It was clear that a lot of time, effort, and expense had gone into the event.
Yet, in the end, it seemed like a tremendous investment for very little return. I couldn’t help but wonder how much more could have been accomplished if those same resources had been used for something the residents would have truly enjoyed and remembered.
I wondered how those same resources might have been used in ways that would have meant more to the people who live here. Sometimes the best activities aren’t the biggest or flashiest—they’re simply the ones that match the audience’s interests. I think words need to go out to the people who live here to help plan events.
With magic and scarf juggling, I was ready to play my part.
But there was no one left there to perform for.
Well, there’s always next time.
I didn’t take any photos because, honestly,
There wasn’t much I wanted to remember.
Sorry about that.
>>>>>July 31
At the end of each month, I wonder what the next one will bring.
New opportunities?
Unexpected challenges?
Pleasant surprises?
There is no way to know.
That’s part of the adventure of being alive.
Then my thoughts grow even bigger. What will the rest of my life hold? More books to write? A movie that reaches millions? New friendships? More lessons to learn? More reasons to smile? I don’t have those answers, and neither do you.
What I do know is this: tomorrow has never been promised, but it has always been filled with possibility, and some of the greatest moments of my life arrived without warning. The people who changed my life, the opportunities I never expected, the adventures I couldn’t have imagined, and even the challenges that made me stronger all appeared on ordinary days that began like any other. That’s why I greet each new morning with hope. You never know when the next page of your story will become your favorite chapter.
I never expected to become a successful author. I never imagined I would survive a coma, learn to walk and speak again, or one day travel across America living in a van. Life has a remarkable way of writing chapters we never could have planned.
So instead of worrying about what lies ahead, I choose to prepare myself for whatever comes. I’ll keep learning. I’ll keep writing. I’ll keep encouraging others. I’ll keep looking for reasons to laugh, grow, and make a difference.
The future is an unopened book, and today I get to write one more page of my story. Tomorrow, another blank page will be waiting, filled with possibilities I can’t yet imagine. None of us knows what lies ahead, and that’s part of life’s adventure.
One decision, one opportunity, or one unexpected moment can change everything. So I’ll keep moving forward, one page at a time, believing that the best chapter may still be ahead—and I hope that’s true for you, too.
PART 3–BLOG 388–FRESH PERSPECTIVES
In this section, I share thoughts, ideas, and lessons that have helped me grow through life’s successes and setbacks. My hope is that these fresh perspectives encourage you to see new possibilities, embrace each day with purpose, and discover simple ways to make your own life a little better.
The Empty Chair – What can an empty chair teach us about gratitude, loneliness, or opportunity?
The View from My Window – How the same view changes every day, even when I think nothing has changed.
Waiting – We spend years waiting: in lines, at doctors’ offices, for test results, for dreams. What if waiting is part of living, not an interruption to it?
A Smile Costs Nothing – The surprising power of greeting a stranger.
The Last Time – We never know when we’re doing something for the last time. That realization makes ordinary moments more precious.
Tiny Victories – Making the bed, walking a little far, and writing one paragraph. Small wins create remarkable lives.
Questions I Ask Myself – End an entry with one thoughtful question that encourages readers to examine their own lives.
Finding Humor in Difficulty – Like calling your inhaler a “breath freshener.” Humor doesn’t erase problems, but it makes carrying them easier.
Looking Forward – Instead of ending with what happened today, end with what tomorrow makes possible.
FRESH PERSPECTIVES
Fresh Perspectives for Better Living
Fresh Perspectives on Life
Fresh Perspectives for Today
A Better View
New Ways to See Life
Life Through Fresh Eyes
Moments of Perspective
Thoughts to Help You Grow
GETTING BETTER!
Before I do anything else, I like to ask myself one simple question: What does “better” mean to me? It’s a question worth revisiting because the answer changes as life changes. What mattered to me years ago may not be what matters most today.
Getting better can mean becoming healthier, improving my juggling, writing more meaningful words, finding greater happiness, strengthening my relationships, reducing stress, or simply appreciating each new day a little more. It isn’t about becoming perfect. It’s about continuing to grow.
My definition of “better” may be different from yours, and that’s exactly the way it should be. We each have our own dreams, challenges, and goals. What matters most is that we keep moving forward, one small step at a time.
So today, I ask myself that question once again:
What does “better” mean to me?
Then I turn that same question toward you.
What does “better” mean to you?
It may mean becoming healthier. It could be finding more joy in each day, strengthening your relationships, learning a new skill, reducing stress, or simply becoming a little kinder, wiser, and more grateful than you were yesterday.
There isn’t one right answer, because “better” is personal. It looks different for each of us. The important thing is to decide what it means for you—and then take one small step in that direction today. Those small steps, repeated day after day, have a remarkable way of turning into extraordinary lives.
Whatever your answer, lasting improvement rarely comes from giant leaps. It comes from small, consistent actions repeated every day. A one-percent improvement may seem tiny, but over time, those small victories create remarkable change.
Start by caring for your body.
Strengthening your mind.
Nurturing your relationships.
Becoming the best version of yourself.
One small step today can change your tomorrow.
HOW MANY OF THE FOLLOWING CAN YOU DO EACH DAY?
Whatever your answer, meaningful change rarely comes from one giant leap. It almost always grows from small, consistent actions repeated day after day. A one-percent improvement today may seem insignificant, but those tiny gains compound over time into extraordinary results.
The good news?
You don’t have to change everything at once.
Just begin.
WHICH ONE?–Choose one healthy habit. Practice it consistently. Then add another. Before long, you’ll discover that you are becoming a healthier, happier, stronger version of yourself.
HOW MANY OF THESE CAN YOU DO TODAY?
CLEAR YOUR MIND (for one.)
SIT–Sit quietly for a few minutes. Close your eyes. Breathe slowly. Your thoughts will wander—that’s what minds do. Simply notice them and gently return your attention to your breathing. Just a few minutes of stillness can reduce stress, increase patience, and prepare you to handle whatever the day brings. Sometimes the greatest gift you can give yourself is a peaceful mind.
GET OUTSIDE– Step outdoors.
Feel the sunshine on your face. Pull a few weeds. Watch the clouds drift by. Listen to the birds. Take a deep breath of fresh air. Nature has an amazing ability to calm the mind, boost creativity, improve memory, and reduce anxiety. Even if you live in the middle of a busy city, you can always find a tree, a flower, or a patch of green that reminds you life is still growing.
LAUGH! Laughter may be one of the simplest forms of medicine.
Read something funny. Watch your favorite comedian.
Call a friend who always makes you smile.
Laughter relaxes your muscles, lifts your mood, releases feel-good chemicals throughout your brain, and reminds you not to take life quite so seriously. Best of all… It’s free.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Take a minute to write down three things you’re grateful for.
They don’t have to be extraordinary.
A good meal. A comfortable bed. A beautiful sunrise.
A kind word. A friend’s smile.
Gratitude shifts our attention away from what we lack and toward the abundance already surrounding us.
COUNT >>
Count What’s Good.
Take a moment to write down a few things you’re grateful for.
They don’t have to be big things. It could be a good meal, a kind word, a comfortable bed, or simply another sunrise. People who regularly practice gratitude tend to experience less stress and greater happiness. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s missing to what is already wonderful.
CONNECT WITH OTHERS >>
Wish Someone Well.
Choose someone—a friend, family member, coworker, or even a complete stranger.
Quietly wish them happiness, health, peace, and success.
This simple act of compassion often lifts our own spirits as much as it benefits others. Kind thoughts have a way of improving the thinker.
MOVE >>
Take a Walk.
Put on your shoes and head out the door.
Walking reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts creativity.
If you’ve been wrestling with a problem, your next great idea is waiting around the corner.
Many of life’s solutions come to us as we move forward.
SOUNDS >>
Turn On Some Music
Put on a favorite song and let the music work its magic.
Music can reduce anxiety, ease stress, and brighten your mood almost instantly.
And if the music inspires a little dancing, even better.
MUSIC >>
No one ever regretted a spontaneous kitchen dance party.
TURN ON SOME MUSIC! Play a favorite song. Sing. Dance. Smile.
Music has an incredible ability to calm anxiety, improve mood, and instantly change the emotional direction of a day. And yes… Kitchen dancing absolutely counts as exercise.
YOUR LIST >>
Cross One Thing Off Your List.
Pick one small task you’ve been avoiding.
Send the email. Make the appointment. Change the light bulb. Organize that drawer.
Completing even a tiny task creates momentum. Success often starts with one small checkmark.
CONNECTION >>
Connect With Someone.
Reach out to another person.
Call a friend. Text a family member. Invite someone for coffee.
Strong relationships are one of the greatest predictors of happiness and well-being.
Human beings are built for connection.
NOURISHMENT >>
Eat Something That Loves You Back.
Choose a healthy snack that fuels both body and mind.
Fresh fruit. A handful of nuts. Whole grains. Vegetables. Plenty of water.
“Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.”
Healthy eating doesn’t require perfection.
START SMALL >>
Small improvements made consistently create lasting results.
Choose foods that nourish rather than merely entertain.
Eat a little more of what helps your body and a little less of what hurts it.
There is no single “best” diet for everyone.
Experiment, learn, and discover what works best for you at this stage of your life.
OTHERS >>
Do a Good Deed. Hold a door open. Offer encouragement. Volunteer.
Help someone carry a load—literally or figuratively.
Kindness creates a ripple effect that benefits both the giver and the receiver.
One small act can brighten an entire day.
YOUR BODY >>
Stretch–Your body was designed to move.
Take a few minutes to stretch your neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs.
Gentle stretching improves circulation, reduces tension, and helps you feel more energized.
Think of it as a thank-you note to your body.
Move Your Body Daily — Exercise doesn’t need to be extreme.
Walk. Stretch. Swim. Juggle. Ride a bike. Dance. Lift weights.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency.
Remember: A little of something is far better than a lot of nothing.
TAKE A WALK >> Walking is one of the healthiest things you can do. It reduces stress, improves mood, increases creativity, and strengthens your body.
If you’ve been struggling with a problem, don’t be surprised if the solution lies somewhere between your first and last steps. Life has a funny way of rewarding forward motion.
YOUR SLEEP >>
Get Enough Rest (I need to do better here.)
Sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Most people function best with seven to eight hours of sleep, though individual needs vary.
Try to go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time each day.
Your mind and body love consistency.
And if you need a short afternoon nap, don’t feel guilty about it.
Even race cars spend time in the pit before returning to the track.
LOVE >>
Hug Someone (perhaps me?) A warm hug can do wonders.
A hug can reduce stress, increase feelings of connection, and even support overall health.
Sometimes a hug says more than words ever could.
Give Yourself a Pep Talk.
Be careful how you talk to yourself.
CHANGE >>
Replace: “I can’t do this.” With: “I can handle this.”
Replace: “I always mess things up.” With: “Everyone makes mistakes.
I’ll learn from this and keep going.”
Your mind is always listening.
Make sure you’re speaking words that help rather than hurt.
THANKS >>
Write a Thank-You Note.
Take a moment to thank someone who has made a difference in your life.
It doesn’t have to be long.
A few sincere words of appreciation can strengthen relationships.
They remind both people of the good that exists in the world.
IDEAS TO HELP >>
After dinner, floss and brush your teeth, then take a short walk.
Finish eating at least three hours before bedtime.
Hang from a sturdy doorway bar if you’re able—it helps counteract the effects of gravity on your joints and spine.
Smoke less or not at all. Limit alcohol. Sit less and move more.
These habits won’t eliminate every challenge life throws your way.
THE RESULT >>
They won’t solve every financial problem, heal every relationship, or remove every obstacle.
What they will do is make you stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
And resilience is one of life’s greatest superpowers.
Take care of yourself. The world needs the healthiest, happiest version of you.
To your health, happiness, and continued growth.
GO BEYOND PHYSICAL >>
Too often, the greatest limits we face are not physical—they are the ones we quietly place on our own minds. We convince ourselves that we’ve gone as far as we can when, in reality, we’ve only reached the edge of our comfort zone. Growth begins the moment we become willing to step beyond that invisible line.
YOUR POTENTIAL
Expanding your potential requires three simple but powerful habits: embracing discomfort, refining your process, and steadily raising your daily goals. Progress rarely arrives in giant leaps. Instead, it comes from small, consistent improvements repeated day after day. Every challenge you accept strengthens your confidence, and every success reminds you that you are capable of more than you once believed.
YOUR GROWTH
Think of personal growth the same way you think of stretching your muscles. The goal is never pain; the goal is gentle, steady tension. A healthy stretch feels slightly uncomfortable, but never damaging. Push too hard, and your body instinctively tightens to protect itself, increasing the risk of injury. Your mind works much the same way. Stretch yourself enough to grow, but not so much that you become discouraged or overwhelmed.
YES–YOU ARE!
Never underestimate what is already inside you. You are stronger, wiser, more resilient, and more capable than you realize. Every day offers another opportunity to stretch a little farther, learn a little more, and become a little better. Don’t let yesterday’s opinion of yourself determine tomorrow’s possibilities. Your greatest potential is still waiting to be discovered.
Quietly think of someone. Wish them happiness. Health. Peace. Success.
Acts of kindness don’t always require action. Sometimes they begin with a caring heart. Interestingly, these thoughts often improve the thinker’s life just as much as the person being thought about.
=========================
YOU ARE IMPORTANT — TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF.
WILL YOU BE THE FIRST TO REACH 200 YEARS OF AGE?
LIFE IS WAITING FOR YOU — CATCH UP!
LIVE FOR NOW! NOT YESTERDAY! NOT TOMORROW! NOW IS THE TIME!
======================
PART 4) 🔥 A FEW SPARKS TO SLIP INTO YOUR POCKET
✨ THE MAGIC OF QUOTES ✨
Inspirational quotes are like mental spark plugs. 💥 They jolt the mind awake, shrink giant problems down to size, and give your spirit a running start. One powerful sentence can flip your thinking upside down—turning “I can’t” into “Why not give it a shot?” The right words at the right moment can become a tiny flashlight in a dark hallway. 🔦
But here’s where the real magic happens: repetition turns inspiration into identity. The more you repeat a truth, the more your mind begins to believe it… and eventually, your life begins to reflect it. A quote hanging on a wall is a decoration. A quote lived out through your actions? That becomes a transformation.
Simple truth:
A quote on a page is nice…
A quote you live by? That’s power. ✨
==========
“A little perspective, like a little humor, goes a long way.”
—Allen Klines
“Yes, you see your potential.
Now look beyond it to the person you could become.
Your potential is only the beginning.
Beyond Your Potential — aim for it!
Look for more and become who you were meant to be.”
—Kit Summers
“The greatest tragedy for any human being is going through their entire lives believing the only perspective that matters is their own.”
—Doug Baldwin
“Empathy begins with understanding life from another person’s perspective.”
—Sterling K. Brown
“The joy of tasting different cultures is that it gives you a broad perspective, and you don’t judge people from stereotypical characters you see in films.”
—Henry Golding
“It is a narrow mind which cannot look at a subject from various points of view.”
—George Eliot, Middlemarch
“It’s just so cool when you meet people who are different from you. That can give you a different perspective, a viewpoint on life, or inspire you. I mean, what would the world be like if we were all the same? I think it would be very boring.”
—Ciara
“I just want people to take a step back, take a deep breath, and actually look at something with a different perspective. But most people will never do that.”
—Brian McKnight
Life is about perspective and how you look at something… ultimately, you have to zoom out.
—Whitney Wolfe Herd
Perspective is everything when you are facing life’s challenges.
—Joni Eareckson Tada
Gratitude is one of the strongest and most transformative states of being. It shifts your perspective from lack to abundance and allows you to focus on the good in your life, which, in turn, draws more goodness into your reality.
—Jen Sincero
“Life is about perspective and how you look at something… ultimately, you have to zoom out.”
—Whitney Wolfe Herd
“Perspective is everything when you are facing life’s challenges.”
—Joni Eareckson Tada
“Gratitude is one of the strongest and most transformative states of being. It shifts your perspective from lack to abundance and allows you to focus on the good in your life, which in turn pulls more goodness into your reality.”
—Jen Sincero
“It’s important to have people who are absolutely willing to say you’re wrong or who have a totally different perspective than you do on everything. Fresh ideas are hard to come by, and good ones are even harder.”
—Shonda Rhimes.
=========================
PART 5—YOUR CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK >>>>>
Stretch beyond what you “think” you can do.
Many of us put limits on our own minds.
Stretching beyond your current limits requires action in three key areas.
Embracing discomfort. Refining your process. Expanding your daily goals.
Just like with your body, the golden rule of stretching is to stretch to the point of gentle tension, never pain. You should feel a mild pulling sensation, but it should never be sharp, stabbing, or agonizing. Pushing past your limit triggers your body’s natural defense, which tightens and significantly increases your risk of strains or tears.
Always know that you are better than you think you are — IN ALL AREAS.
You can be more — YOU ARE MORE!
===========================
PART 6) NEXT WEEK>>>>>
BLOG 389–YES, YOU’RE GETTING THERE!
=========================
I miss you. Write to me—kitsummers@gmail.com
=========================
🌟 PART 7) FINAL THOUGHTS 🌟
Because the best is always still ahead.
So juggle joy like it’s the air you breathe.
The horizon holds more than you can yet imagine.
Your present moment is not the finish line—it’s your starting block.
Chase sunsets as if they’re secret treasures waiting just for you.
Laugh so loudly that tomorrow leans in to listen.
Write me today—kitsummers@gmail.com
Live as though you’ve only just begun—
🌟BECAUSE YOU TRULY HAVE! 🌟
