By: Dr. Steve Bettner
Good morning, friend.
It’s Monday. But what if I told you Monday doesn’t have to feel like Monday?
You know what I mean—that dragging weight of obligation, the invisible pressure to get serious again, to grind, to produce, to “be productive.” But here’s the thing: not every Monday has to start with stress, coffee-fueled commutes, or a countdown to Friday.
Sometimes, a Monday can feel like… well, freedom.
This Morning, José Woke Up Early
Not because he had to—but because the birds were singing and the sky was blushing pink with the sunrise.
He shuffled to the water’s edge barefoot, salt still clinging to his skin from yesterday’s swim. His youngest was already awake, skipping rocks. José didn’t check email. He didn’t glance at the clock. He just bent down, picked up a flat stone, and joined him.
They skipped stones for nearly 45 minutes. No agenda. Just ripples.
Because Monday is Just Another Day to Live Well
You don’t get extra credit in life for suffering through your week. You don’t have to earn your peace. The hustle can wait for a few hours.
Make pancakes this morning. Laugh with your kids. Let your dog pull you down the sidewalk with wild joy. Go for a walk with no destination. Play a song just because it reminds you of that summer.
They say kids grow up in the blink of an eye. One minute you’re wiping jelly off their face, the next you’re waving goodbye at college.
So today—just for today—don’t wait for Saturday to enjoy your life.
Here’s Your Permission Slip 📝
This week, be the Mexican Fisherman.
• Take a break in the middle of the day just because it’s beautiful out.
• Dance in the kitchen to that old love song.
• Pick your kid up from school and surprise them with ice cream.
• Call someone you love and tell them.
There are plenty of weeks for schedules, goals, and progress.
But maybe this is the week for presence.
Because someday, the things that seem “little” today will be the big things you miss.
So Happy Monday, My Friend
Live slow. Love big. Laugh often. And remember—the best catch of the day isn’t always fish.
Sometimes it’s a smile, a memory, or a moment you didn’t rush through.
See you on the dock.
– The Mexican Fisherman
mexicanfisherman.com 