+ The Good Life

A Little Praise...

I was flanked this weekend by cheering students at Columbia Business School.  They whooped and hollered for me as I ascended the stairs between them on my ascent to Uris Hall on my visit to Watson Library.  I went to the library for some enlightenment off the racks.  The small crowd of students was there to greet newcomers at the beginning of fall term.  Their overflow of praise gave me a lift.  What a difference their simple act of affirmation made in brightening my day!  They infused me with a glow beyond the learned works from the library stacks, and gave me something simple but meaningful to pass on. 

 

 

Holy Dangerous Work

The body collectors of those who have died of Ebola in Liberia are doing sacred service for their community. Their work is immensly dangerous - and courageous.  Nurith Aizenman of NPR news describes their painstaking process of donning layers of protective gear. "They unfurl white plastic jumpsuits and pull them on. Next come face masks and goggles. They tape their sleeves shut with meticulous care and check each other for exposed skin. Their life depends on getting this right."  Then they all gather in a circle, touch hands and pray: "God our father, ... may you be the protector. We will take the precautionary measures, but may you seal us with your holy spirit and with your angels."  It seems to me that this is a good prayer for any of us going out for our day's work.  And as I echo this prayer today, I remember with deep respect those who daily serve the dying, their families and especially the people of West Africa.

Praise for Those Who Love us in our Dying Days

I have stood countless hours at the bedside of those who are dying, holding their hands, talking of the journey ahead, and praying. I’ve wrapped my arms around their families, comforted them in their grief and led a staff of trained counselors and volunteers who have joined me in providing support. Often beside me in the support of the dying, and their grieving loved ones, has been a team of hospice workers and palliative care medical personnel. These compassionate and skilled workers were by the side of my own family during the recent passing of both my mom and dad. I am deeply touched by their career decisions to give loving professional care to people in great need, and moved by This American Life’s tribute to their courageous work. It starts at the 5 minute mark.

 

Courageous Vulnerability that leads to Joy

Dr. Brene Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston whose studies reveal that those who embrace vulnerability are more likely to experience wholehearted joy, creativity, a sense of belonging, and love. She defines vulnerability in this talk and describes how it is courageous.

 

Work Hard???

One of my scout masters always said: "Study well, work hard, and keep your nose clean. Then you'll succeed." This is true. Yet it's more true for some than others