It is a happiness to wonder; it is a happiness to dream. When one thinks of Edgar Allan Poe, images of a dark or mysterious nature come to mind. Fall of the House of Usher, the Raven, and similarly dark works are likely why Poe remains popular today. But this quote invited me into one […]
A Story of Numbers After my eighth serious quit attempt in three years, it finally took. Support from the QuittersWin group and mindful use of NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) helped me finally sever the chains from my 45-year, pack-per-day addiction. I noticed a difference right away! By the end of day two smoke-free, I was
Balance is vital. Balance is an essential aspect of the universe. In fact, the entirety of the universe attests to balance. The inter-relatedness of the universe necessitates the balance and its unceasing motion seeks balance. Our relationships require balance as well, if they are to be healthy. Two characteristics of healthy relationships which must be
Some of the groups I facilitate each week are Tobacco Cessation groups. I’ve listened to the voices in the meeting and I’m sometimes surprised by the amount of laughter in our soundtrack. You are welcome to come and listen in to a meeting – even if you aren’t sure you’re “ready” to quit. ZERO pressure,
Quitting Smoking is Fun?! Read More »
I have never accepted what was the conventional wisdom that addicted people needed to “just say no” or choose differently. I didn’t believe it was that simple.
Addiction: Blame vs. Responsibility Read More »
Today I am incredibly proud of a brave friend, Marion, who quit smoking tobacco three years ago! That’s an impressive milestone, especially since tobacco is considered a more clinically complex addiction than any other! She has defeated her “5-Headed Dragon!” Her accomplishment is all the more astounding since a few weeks after she quit, a
This photograph by my friend Joshua Lord has mystified me since I first saw it. As I share it today, I think perhaps it’s calling us to color our world with our own unique light. We ought to see ourselves regularly as agents of change in this world, with light to share. To be clear,
We cannot change what we are not aware of, and once we are aware, we cannot help but change. ~ Sheryl Sandberg This may sound too good to be true – to suggest that once we become aware we will change – but I think it IS true. But it doesn’t mean that once we
“You can have anything you want if you want it badly enough. You can be anything you want to be, do anything you set out to accomplish if you hold to that desire with singleness of purpose.” ~Abraham Lincoln A singleness of purpose is rare and it’s rare because it’s hard, BUT it’s also irresistible,
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Mistakes aren’t the worst things that can happen to you. Doing nothing is a mistake! If you keep moving, keep trying, one of these days you’ll get there (especially if you get some competent advice and compassionate support along the way.) So don’t fret if you slip, stumble, fumble, or fall. At least you know
Making Mistakes Means You’re Moving Read More »
If we have sufficient courage, we can own our story. Doing so will mean coming to terms with our faults, flaws, character defects, shortcomings, mistakes, missteps, and the lies we’ve told to ourselves and others. This is not a journey for the faint of heart, but it is certainly a noble journey. Owning our story
The quote below is attributed to Mother Theresa. While I’m quite certain others have seen and spoken this truth before and since Mother Theresa’s days on earth, I’m content to give her credit. “If we really want to love we must learn how to forgive.” I’d like to take a little poetic liberty with her
To Love is to Forgive Read More »
There is a dynamic tension present in strong structures, successful relationships, and in effective communities. And while seeming obvious at first glance, exploring and valuing the connectedness between pieces of a machine, partners in a relationship, and members of a community. The “glue” or “mortar” that binds must have a more or less equal bond
Having the right tools for a job changes everything. When you think about positive changes you’ve made in your life, what was helpful? Consider sharing some of those “tools” with others. Your tip or support could change someone’s journey from “impossible” to “possible.” Sharing your experience can empower and inspire others! And maybe sharing with
The Right Tools Make a Big Difference Read More »
New growth is fun to watch, exciting to watch, and fills us with hope. And (trying not to say “but” here) it also demands lots of attention. To consider the example of a seedling, there is obviously tremendous potential hidden within the frail looking plant. It might grow into a tree. It might produce a
