Echoes of the Garage

Daily writing prompt

What’s a skill you consider basic, that most people don’t actually know how to do?

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July 23, 2026 – 9:06 a.m.

First things first…

good morning.

Thank you for allowing your eyes to see my words…

and your mind to read along.

Here in Los Angeles…

today is sunny.

Not nearly as hot as yesterday.

I’m sitting under the shade.

Beautiful day.

Beautiful to be alive.

My mom has always been one of my role models.

She isn’t university educated.

Nor would most people call her a profound thinker.

But…

she has something I’ve admired for a very long time.

She has a wonderful attitude.

She’s battled health issues unbeknownst to me…

a difficult marriage…

and financial struggles.

Yet…

she’ll still say hello to anyone who walks by.

Then she’ll wait…

just to see if they smile back.

One day I asked her,

“Mom…

how do you never seem to get mad?

How do you let things roll off your shoulders?”

She laughed while making breakfast.

“Life is short, son.”

“If you take everything personally…

you’ll never enjoy life.”

“Enjoy life…

not what other people say about you.”

Then she smiled.

“Besides…”

“They say if you want to live a long life…

stay as relaxed as possible.”

She laughed again.

If you’re having breakfast…

I hope you enjoy it.

And more importantly…

I hope you enjoy your life.

Question for the Reader

What’s one lesson someone in your family taught you that has quietly stayed with you throughout your life?

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I write about ordinary mornings, family, creativity, and the small moments that quietly shape who we become. New stories and reflections are published regularly.