If you're lucky, there's someone in your life that just instantly puts you in a state of calm. There's something about their voice, warms hugs or their willingness to listen that just puts you at ease. When someone can be a calming presence for you, you can do the same for someone else. Hence, calm is contagious. :) This painting is a portrait of my parents. My dad (born in the year of the Tiger) has always been a calming presence for my mom (born in the year of the Rabbit). When I was a kid, I used to think my dad was too laid back ("Doesn't he care about anything?!"). As I grew older, I realized how valuable of a trait it is to choose your battles. Only a few things are worth stirring a fuss about. Everything else can just pass.