Years ago in my intensive studies with cultural anthropologist Angeles Arrien, she spoke of “responsibility for our impact.” That teaching has stayed with me as I’ve observed how easy is it for others to perceive us in ways that can be contrary to how we see ourselves. Being responsible for our impact requires that we remain vigilant to the expectations we create. For example, when we are given the speaking platform, the invitation confers a level of authority that gives our words great power. And on a personal level, when engaged in a glorious “what if . . . ?” co-creative surge that comes and goes like a hot flash, others may be making plans while we are moving on.

It is time to recognize the power we hold. It is time to clear those sabotaging voices that tell us we’re not enough. We would be wise to heed the advice quoted by a recent client: “Don’t compare your insides with everybody else’s outsides.” Continue reading →

This week I saw the inspiring film A Sense of Wonder made from interviews with Rachel Carson in the final year of her life, in 1964. As the government marine biologist spoke of the critical acclaim she received for her book Silent Spring, she said, “In some ways, the subject chooses the writer.”

Carson had made a seven-month commitment to write a book for which she received a publishing advance from Houghton Mifflin in 1958. It became the culmination of her life’s work when, two and a half years into her research, she realized she was just scratching the surface. When Silent Spring was published in 1962, the critics in the chemical industry were louder than the initial acclaim. (She noted there were few dissidents but they had a lot of money.) Her book catalyzed investigation into the destruction of life that comes from synthetic pesticides and catapulted environmental concerns to the forefront of public discourse, where they have remained ever since. Continue reading →

“Fear is the cheapest room in the house. I would like to see you living in better conditions.” – Hafiz

2009 is one of the best years possible to do the work of your heart. In “normal” times there is no urgency or need to go beyond what is known and accepted. In today’s more turbulent times, when you speak in your unique way about what you love, what you believe in, and what you offer, you touch an unnamed longing in people that wakes them up to the value of something that only you can provide. Your authentic and distinct voice can be heard as never before. Continue reading →

Beth Jarman wrote to tell me about the holiday party she and her husband George Land are planning for their business partners from Mexico. “It is a great time, renewing connections and sharing stories. We have an annual white elephant gift which can only be something that has no redeeming value,” she says.

I started to wonder how many gifts we give without knowing we have outdone ourselves by presenting a white elephant. Continue reading →