What activity instantly calms you?

Petting one of the dogs. Seeing their steady breathing and feeling their soft hair quells anxiety and centers me.

What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve done lately?

I took the weekend off from writing. There was some stuff going on and for once I didn’t put my head down and try to push through, I just acknowledged I needed the break and stepped back. It helped.

If people receive a purple heart for bravery, what would other color hearts represent? (Example yellow heart = cowardice

Blue = loyalty. Yellow = compassion. Red = passion. Orange = inspiration. Green = nurturing.

What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done or witnessed someone else do?

I’m a survivor who reported my rape to the police. A year later I stood up in front of my sorority and shared my story.

How do you show gratitude to the people you respect?

For me showing gratitude means meeting someone where they are. If they feel appreciation through words I let them know how much I love having them in my life. If they feel through actions I’ll do things like making a meal or putting gas in their car. If I really want to show gratitude then I choose ways they’ll feel it.

Sparks from a Combustible Mind hosts Share Your World.