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.
LongevityMeaning
September 17, 2020

Pain-Fear-Failure

Most of us are hard-wired to avoid pain (there’s a word for those who enjoy it, but I’m not going down that road). I remember going to the doctor as a child and the inevitable injection of the 3-foot needle going into my arm causing…
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Meaning
September 17, 2020

It’s not permanent

I fully and readily admit that when it comes to cleaning outdoor furniture, I am an unwilling participant. I hate it! I resist even the thought of it. I am not quite sure why; maybe it’s the fact that a day later, they’re dirty again…
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MasteryMeaning
September 17, 2020

Finding satisfaction

During these long days of isolation, it’s important to find satisfaction. It’s too easy to focus on what is lost, what is difficult, what is disheartening…but it is, from personal experience, a black hole. I have discovered a few things that are satisfying—the best has…
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LongevityMasteryMeaning
September 17, 2020

The hero’s journey

Joseph Campbell wrote extensively about the hero’s journey—the perils and challenges from innocence to resolved hero. He describes the 12 stages from where the story begins in safety, his call to adventure, misgiving and the motivations and tests along the way. It is epic ordeal,…
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Meaning
September 17, 2020

I used to be…

With warm weather finally gracing us here in NJ, I have turned my full attention to my garden projects. I have been experimenting with sprouts over the last month and have met with some success. It’s not hard…seeds, sprouting tray, water…duh! I love how within…
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Meaning
September 17, 2020

Sowing seeds

With warm weather finally gracing us here in NJ, I have turned my full attention to my garden projects. I have been experimenting with sprouts over the last month and have met with some success. It’s not hard…seeds, sprouting tray, water…duh! I love how within…
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Meaning
September 17, 2020

Moments of truth

I awoke from the twilight sleep provided by the anesthesiologist. The nurse asked if I wanted some juice or water and let me know that the doctor would be in to go over the results. Blinking, I asked for some water and wondered whether the…
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Meaning
September 17, 2020

Learning

Twenty years ago, I was elected to serve on the Board of Education.  It was an experiment meant to push me completely out of my comfort zone. In running, I was forced to, 1. Speak in public, 2. Ask people for help, and 3. Allow…
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