Always always I have followed my own path and for that I am deeply appreciative. Although I care about what others think, it has never taken precedence of my pursuit of my own unique life. My commencement speech at my high school graduation was Henry David Thoreau’s A Different Drummer and was about following one’s own path. Within that space I have highly valued the insight, support, and love of my friends, colleagues, and others who have helped me along the way.

Work one loves. Again, how incredibly blessed to love all my work and to be filled with passion and the opportunity to have real moments of sitting with others and experiencing connection. And that work is as diverse as being a criminal psychologist working with inmates to starting a blog and developing products in the personal transformation and personal growth arena. I always remember the tremendous good fortune I have experienced and continue to experience. With that, I also acknowledge that I have cultivated and chosen that path, often through adversity, with my firm belief in this life process he addressed – the magic of how life evolves if we are willing to flow with it (and sometimes resist ).

Most thought provoking to me was his closing remarks to remain hungry and foolish. Just last night my dear friend told me about an interview she listened to between Bill Harris of Holosync and Genpo Roshi. Genpo Roshi asked Bill Harris “How does the universe function?” Bill Harris gave a lengthy and rather intellectual response. Genpo Roshi replied: “Now doubt that”. The implication is where you are certain, there you are stuck. I love serendipity. Here it is again…remain hungry and foolish. I will reflect upon it.

Thank you for the inspiration.

You might enjoy this short interview with Zen teacher Bon Soen, who talks a little bit about not knowing:

There is value in every experience. Life is a journey, and the best thing to do is to live fully with no fear in your heart. Every. Single. Day.
.-= Jess @OpenlyBalanced´s last blog ..Frustrated Friday =-.

When I changed jobs some years ago I sent this video to my colleagues profoundly believing these words, two years later I was fired of my new job.

Then after quite some some unemployed, five minutes after seeing this video again, I received notice that I was accepted into graduate school, How fitting.

Thanks Mary!

I especially liked when he said he looks in the mirror every morning and asks if what he plans to do is what he would want to do if this were his last day. Then he goes on to say if the answer is “no” several days in a row, something needs to shift. This is a wonderful barometer to live by.