Although guts don't initially seem sparkly, I realize that the visceral integrity of gutsiness can be wholly inspiring, even mythic. Somebody else's heroism galvanizes us into action. That's totally magical. Here's what I mean:
1) Inspiring Kick in the Pants: If you're even considering a pity party any time soon, check out Newsweek's cover article, "150 Fearless Women in the World" (Newsweek, March 12, 2012, pp. 40-63).
My jaw hung in the dropped position for the whole time I was reading – in awe, admiration, even disbelief that people can be so brave. What does passionate commitment look like? Read this article to be reminded.
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For an especially extraordinary example, read the epic of Nobel Peace Prize winner and Burmese leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Fierceness, brains, vision, tenacity, beauty, and wisdom rolled into one gorgeous, vastly powerful woman. I've humbly added her to my list of people I dedicate my dancing to whenever I dance.
2) Helpful reminders:
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"Do one thing every day that scares you." –Eleanor Roosevelt
and
"... you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." –A.A.Milne
3) Putting those first 2 together: Return of the Flashmobsoloist
Dancing right down Main Street this morning I was, yessiree. Tomorrow I hope to get to the Center. It seems small, but it's my offering to the Universe, this portable dance improvisation I'm doing when I can.
Reading something like Suu Kyi's story of decades of house arrest, death threats and separation from her sons and husband (the latter, now dead) reafffirms my conviction that if more of us would dance and sing and paint, out there, yes OUT THERE in the world, we might have more peace. And for sure, more joy. Suu Kyi and all like you, this dance, all of these dances – they're for you.
4) Aretha!
Special thanks to you, Alexandra, for adding Pandora to my iPad. It's helped bring back into my life (and my kitchen cleaning:)) the sheer beauty and force of voices like Aretha Franklin's. And introduced me to a whole lotta new artists – and their magic.
5) Fueling the Jet Pack: O, the Oprah Magazine, April 2012.
Hungry? Whether you need to fill a physical, emotional or creative void while you're out on your superhero missions, this issue serves up lots of fuel. The "Make Your Life Delicious" theme plays out in fab recipes, inspiring stories and gorgeous design. I'm trying at least 1 or 2 new recipes NOW.
enjoy....
