Do you put things off for some special day in the future? Don’t wait. Find something to celebrate this week with its variety of cultural events, religious observances and natural holidays.

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Fall starts on September 23, the equinox. Shorter days, cooler temperatures, Labor Day and school resuming have already announced that change is in the air, but it becomes official on Wednesday. “Equinox” means “equal night” and signifies that daylight and darkness are equal length. Autumn is a time to reap harvests and store for the upcoming winter, although most of us are disconnected from this requirement with living in urbanized areas and having ready access to grocery stores. The beginning of this new season is time to reevaluate where you are and if necessary, restore balance in your life. Tomorrow, a small group of us will initiate an equinox goals challenge to focus on something we’d like to accomplish or change over the next 40 days. Contact me if you want to participate in the Equinox Challenge.

Two auspicious days occur this week for Jews and Muslims. Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, fasting and prayers, begins at sundown today. To recognize those who are observing this holiday, one might extend a greeting such as “Have an easy fast” or “Happy new year.” Also, one of two major Muslim holidays falls this week. Eid Al-Adha on September 23, commemorates the end of the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca–the Hajj. During this time, Muslims give thanks to Allah for bounty and mercy bestowed.

Put away the car for a day. Today is world Car-Free day which encourages motorists to find alternatives. Using more sustainable ways to travel helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion. Travel options such as transit, bicycling and walking yield better health and generate fewer pollutants. Celebrate sustainable mobility.

Take Back Your Meds — If you have unwanted or expired medicines, the National Drug Take-Back initiatives this week aim to provide for responsible disposal of prescription drugs. Search for a drop-off location near you. If a take-back program is unavailable, you can dispose of most medicines in your trash by mixing them with an unpalatable substance such as kitty litter or used coffee grounds. And, remove personal information from containers to make prescription labels unreadable. Click here for specific information.

Happiness is not something in the future; far away in time or place. Today, find something to celebrate. Take a step in the direction of happiness to change your life. “Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today.” – James Dean