Welcome to the X.

X as in the unique mix of decisions and experiences that will bring you meaning and joy in your next chapter. Think practical tools, a little inspiration and more than a few stories of those who’ve jumped the hurdle.
Meaning
July 14, 2022

Changing Your Story

We are often told to pursue our passions in our professional lives. From childhood and onward, we hear the familiar tune of advice like, “Do what you love,” when it comes to our career. Yet it’s rare to find people who’ve turned their passions into…
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Meaning
July 12, 2022

What’s YOUR Story?

Everyone has a story. Everyone’s story is unique to their experience. Everyone has a lesson to share. I have learned so much over the last two years of presenting the Chapter X podcasts, and I hope you have enjoyed listening. If you would like to…
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Meaning
July 10, 2022

Fun

My definition of fun has evolved over the years.  As a child, fun was playing ball with friends and exploring the nearby woods. In college, fun was associated with social activities with friends and my then-girlfriend (now wife of 45 years).  As an adult, fun…
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Meaning
July 9, 2022

Bumping Up Against a Lifetime of Beliefs

Recently, I listened to a friend of mine talk about his current life situation. His work pace is killing him. While he is passionate about it, he is being “forced” by circumstances (an impossible labor market) to do things he shouldn’t have to at this…
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Meaning
July 7, 2022

Creative Spaces

Ever noticed how different you feel depending on your surroundings? On the surface, it might sound woo woo, but there are decades of scientific research that suggests our bodies respond to cues in our environment. Studies have found that our mood, health, happiness, and behavior…
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Meaning
July 5, 2022

A Quote that Blew My Mind

I recently subscribed to The Daily Stoic after my daughter-in-law brought it to my attention.  Today’s quote stopped me in my tracks. “Think of the life you have lived until now as over and, as a dead man, see what’s left as a bonus and…
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Meaning
July 3, 2022

Reflection and Gratitude

My renewed involvement in music has been revelatory in many ways. I think about my life in music many years ago. It was all about striving to be the “best” and while I loved performing, it was a mixed bag of anxiety and pressure.  My…
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Meaning
July 2, 2022

Socialization

During our recent Chapter X Zoom get-together, we were joined by Dr. David Bernstein, a retired gerontologist, author and new participant in our community. He talked about the importance of socialization as a means of navigating a full, healthy and meaningful next chapter. Harry Scheyer…
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