In an examined life everything is compost. Cherished memories empower us and enrich our lives. But so can our mistakes, old habits we'd like to break, patterns we've outgrown. Instead of dwelling on a negative experience, we can compost it. Becoming more mindful, asking, "What can I learn from this?" and then moving on can turn any negative experience into a new cycle of wisdom and growth.

Diane Dreher, Inner Gardening