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Brene Brown: About Vulnerability, Authenticity and Belonging

I finally was able to get a walk in last night. One of the critical elements for a good walk, in my system: a good podcast. For several years one of my favorites has been Design Matters with Debbie Millman (I’m not sure how long I’ve been listening, but this post of mine from 2014 says I’d been listening for a few months.) I highly recommend subscribing, even if you’re not a designer or artist. Design thinking’s value extends far beyond graphic arts and design.

The episode from October 23rd features Brene Brown. Sadly, I’d never heard of her before. It’s sad since I have a deep interest in the subjects of her work. I’ll be adding a few of her books to my reading list. Plus she has two, TWO TED Talks that I have missed. So, I’ll be addressing that over the weekend.

I particularly appreciated her thoughts on vulnerability and trust.  Elements which are critical for healthy for relationships, but far too scare, I’m afraid. And the current political environment does nothing to help. But I digress.

Anyway, give the podcast a listen (below). I’ll also put in links at the bottom to connect with her.

I’ll leave you with my favorite quote of hers: “Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver.” A great idea with which to move forward, methinks.

 

Connect With Brene:

Twitter
Her Homepage

Gregorian Chant: A Haiku

Ancient words now sung
Prayers chanted, incense rising
Candlelit stone walls


So many memories within cathedral walls. Chanted prayer always makes my heart soar. Gently, though, like a bird on the wing. Not garish as a jet.

Thursday morning in Seattle

​A cold, dark morning

Covers provide resistance

Though I must rise now

Grab happiness now

Sadness is lurking
Eventually it will spring
Grab happiness now


Sadness is always nearby. Don’t wait to grab happiness!

Freedom: Speech vs Lunch

Both lunches and speech
They are striving to be free
Each in its own way


I’ve thought about the intersection of these two conceptions of freedom for some time. Working on capturing the subtle distinctions between the two ideas. 

I love all this interest in manual typewriters

I find this new love
With manual typewriters
Deeply endearing

Awoke to rains rage
Where I’d resist the outdoors
I’m safe on my couch



I’m a product of Seattle. So much time in the rain, it defines me. I remember a moment, so many years ago, sitting in my apartment, looking out over Seattle with coffee and a good book. With nowhere I needed to go, nor be, I sat in the window bay watching the rain splatter upon the glass, gravity writing it’s magic. 

I Feed In The Darkness

I feed in darkness 

Wander the night, consuming 

Chocolate fears me 

I love the haiku

I love the haiku 

Gentleness in the small size 

Grace in simpleness


Perhaps you’d figured this out about me by now.