What can I say about this poem by William Stafford that it cannot say better for itself? Not a thing! So please, just enjoy. I will say this . . . as I prepare to post the final entry for 2011. Ten Thousand Thanks! Thanks to all who have watched and listened over these last two years. Thanks to those who have attended my classes and speeches this last year. And thanks for all your kind words of feedback and encouragement. Those words have touched my heart as deeply as the poems. Finally I want to thank my dear friend, Richard Berkvam who has been the incredibly talented videographer, director and producer behind these Friday Posts of A Few Wild Stanzas.
30
Dec
2011
What Can Anyone Give You Greater Than “NOW”?
22
Dec
2011
Brother David’s Secret For Happiness (Oh Yes!)
For our work lives or home lives, doesn’t matter . . . Could there be a better time to divulge the secret sauce for happiness? Now that we are edging up to the end of the year. Now that we can take the full measure of one trip round the sun and prepare for another. Now that we know the main ingredient is right at our fingertips. Now that we know the magic of gratitude. Oh yes!
15
Dec
2011
Working With The Paradox Of Loss
Loss comes, of course both in our business and personal lives. As hard as it is to imagine when we are in the middle of such loss, pushing it away only makes the discomfort last longer. It actually makes the pain more intense. Here are some powerful words from the great poet Antonio Machado. Machado’s wife died at a very young age. It has been suggested that his lifelong anguish over this loss created a kind of sacred spiritual yearning in the poet. What’s your take?
08
Dec
2011
Don’t Waste The Pain
These tough times we are living through have been given a special acronym. V.U.C.A. It stands for volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. And yet despite our VUCA world, I see inspired, courageous people all around me. I see people who may be hurting but who are responding with creativity, grace and courage. I see people who are rising up in spite of these times and because of these times . . .
This week is really about one big bold question being directed straight at the most bold and courageous part of you. It comes from a wonderful poem written by the great poet, Mary Oliver. Your comments and feedback are always helpful and delightful.
01
Dec
2011
How To Solve Your 37th Problem
Long ago there was a man determined to speak with the Buddha. After years he succeeded. As soon as he was seated in front of the Buddha he began to describe his long list of woes. When he finally got to the end of his list the Buddha said, “though I would love to help, I can actually only solve your 37th problem.” The man was shocked, disappointed and perplexed. He asked, “so what is my 37th problem?” “Ah”, said the Buddha “that would be the problem of thinking you should not have problems.”
Now please take a look at this week’s video. You might ask yourself these questions: Is life mostly a problem to be solved? Or is it an adventure to be lived? Of course let us know if you have any tips, secrets or practices you use to work with these matters.
