Somehow it has been a whole decade since the magnificent Rev. Peter Gomes has passed away, and I spent some time this week listening to recordings of his sermons. In one of my favorites he reminds his listeners, mostly university folks, that the purpose is “that we not simply grow smarter, but that we […]
When we’re perplexed, it helps to dig down in the roots – and this goes for language, too. One of my favorite lessons from divinity school was a casual conversation about the root words for Bravery and Courage. The root for brave is linked to a front or face. Bravery is a kind of armor, […]
What is your superpower? One of my favorite little books is All My Friends are Superheroes, a quirky story where, indeed, everyone has a curious ability. Invisibility, hypnotism, bat-like hearing… all are not only possible, but present. There’s so much to be done in our world, from folding laundry to analyzing data to fighting for […]
“It takes courage… We have to choose between risk and risk.” – Brother David Steindl-Rast Whether in investing or life, we like to pretend that risk comes with a choice. And it does, kind of. But it’s not a choice of whether, it’s a choice of type. Brother David elaborates: […]
Be joyful though you have considered all the facts. – Wendell Berry I’ve been spending time lately in some circles where it’s cool to be cynical, clever to be critical. If you dare to raise a note of optimism in this crowd, you risk being branded a simpleton. Oblivious […]
The opposite of poverty is not wealth. The opposite of poverty is justice. – Bryan Stevenson This week marked the opening of the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama, projects led by the Equal Justice Initiative. Many observers noted the painful and compelling need for such […]
would you like my box of chaos? Another highlight from the terrific Omega Institute gathering last week, where Sharon Salzberg led our morning meditations. She noted the pressure that some of us feel to elevate everything to “gift level” – divorce as a gift, illness as a gift, loss as a gift. This is a […]
You are only free when you realize you belong no place – you belong every place – no place at all. The price is high. The reward is great. – Dr. Maya Angelou Longtime Honeybees will know of our appreciation for the work of Brené Brown, speaker of […]
Courage (‘ker-ij) n. The ability to do what frightens one. Origin: Middle English (denoting the heart, seat of feelings): from Old French corage, from Latin cor (heart). Anyone who’s ever published – a book, a professional report, a blog post, even a Facebook update – has had to pause at some point to consider her own courage. […]
Who are the Apsaras in your life? If you are lucky, over time you begin to have friends who have been with you most of your life, friends who can remind you of your own essence. My college sisters from Wellesley are such friends, steadfast and honest and caring and true. Among these sisters is the amazing […]