Flashes of kindness realigning one small part of the Universe.

::The neighbor who usually keeps a distance, comes to the door with a ball in her hands. You're ready to explain that it's not your kids', but before you can, she is smiling and apologizing for the one her grandson lost down the drainpipe. And telling you about a new grandchild on the way.

::The waitress in a pizza place, 98 miles away, remembers you all from last summer. Gives you an extra glass of wine, stops by the table and tells you a bit of her story. And you wish she could sit and talk a while more.

::Your husband is an artist who can also do minor plumbing repairs. And doesn't get mad when he finds the root of the problem in the kitchen sink is definitely.you.

::You start the day out grouchy and quarrelsome, and end up laughing with your daughters over your own embarrassment. Really laughing.

::The guy at the bookstore recommends some new, local music. And it's so good. Not perfect, but the tunes stick in your head, and make you think about them.

::Someone you've always admired, but don't cross paths with nearly enough, writes you the kindest, most encouraging words in an actual letter, just when you needed them most.

And you start to think, everything is going to be OK, after all.

More tomorrow. Thanks for reading.

tt