Enlighten: Uplift & Inspire
Dr. Deborah Adamy has conversations with everyday people who inspire, uplift and who are living their lives with vitality and joy. She admires people who can weather adversity and hardship without becoming cynical and bitter; who actually choose to learn, grow and find meaning and purpose in what they have experienced. There are countless ordinary people living pretty extraordinary lives and Deborah wants to shine light on them! Enlighten: Uplift and Inspire includes conversations with a wide variety of people: activists, musicians, shiatsu therapists, circus arts performers, playwrights, directors, psychotherapists, dancers, film makers, yoga teachers, educators, actors and photographers, just to name a few. May you feel inspired and uplifted listening to this podcast. Visit www.enlighten.nyc for more. Enjoy!!
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Episode 164 The Full Catastrophe
05/10/2021
Episode 164 The Full Catastrophe
Do you have a lot going on in your life? Do you feel like your schedule is overflowing with life’s ups and downs? Welcome to the full catastrophe of life! Jon Kabat-Zinn titled his first book “Full Catastrophe of Living.” He says the full catastrophe is “another way to speak of heart-fullness.” Can you be present as you feel your way into your experience from moment to moment: the heartbreaking moments, the tender, sweet moments, the frightening moments and the joyful ones? Kabat-Zinn says that “It’s the nature of the human condition to actually, encounter uncertainty, stress, pain, loss, grief, sadness and also a tremendous potential for joy, connection, love, affiliation. And all of that is the full catastrophe." It’s not just the bad stuff. It’s everything. And the question is, “Can we love it, can we live inside of it in ways that actually enliven us and allow us to be fully human?” I’ll guide you for a few minutes to sit in silence and stillness. Be present to the full catastrophe in your life, in your week, in your day. Marvel at the richness of your daily experiences, the wonder, the contrast and the vitality. Tap into your genuine gratitude to be fully human. Honor and celebrate The Full Catastrophe of Life! Follow this link to Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 163 Garbage Collector
05/03/2021
Episode 163 Garbage Collector
I often bring a garbage bag with me on my Hook Mountain walks. I can’t stand to see trash on the trails, so I feel compelled to do my part to clean up the garbage along the way. I unpack some associations and metaphors that come to mind while collecting garbage. Garbage collectors were important to Martin Luther King, Jr. and the civil rights movement. Garbage collectors have been critical in nationally exposing and highlighting the abuses, non-unionized, low-paying jobs and dangerous working conditions that too many people have suffered under. MLK brought the garbage collectors’ plight into our consciousness, cared about them being treated with dignity and respect. Picking up and clearing garbage, has become a spiritual practice for me. It is a minuscule step in what truly needs to be done to address advocacy for our precious earth, but I feel cleansed, renewed and grateful for this simple measure to clean up garbage, outwardly and inwardly! May you be inspired to clean up your surroundings. May you treat nature with awe, reverence and wonder. May we learn multiple ways to be our planet’s fierce advocate. Check out the show notes to listen and re-listen to the powerful words of Greta Thunberg for the bigger picture task at hand. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 162 The Presence of Angels
04/26/2021
Episode 162 The Presence of Angels
According to the mystics, every human being has been assigned a guardian angel, regardless of your beliefs, culture, ethnicity or geography. That’s right, a personal angel who is the gatekeeper of your soul. And then there are multiple angels who serve unique functions to heal, guide, protect and direct us. Do you allow angels to work with you and for you? Have you ever felt the presence of angels? I hosted 5 Archangels last week and palpably felt the presence of the angels before the Derek Chauvin verdict was announced. The emotions of this verdict are complex and there is much intense, important work ahead of us. I am so grateful that so many people this year rallied forces seen and unseen, individually and collectively to imagine accountability, to imagine healing, to imagine that one day we might manifest the possibility of restoration and true justice. The angels are present! Invite the angels into your home, your heart, your thoughts. The Archangels and all the angels are here to serve humanity and God knows humanity needs some serious serving! Check out the show notes for links to “The Weight of Bearing Witness” podcast as well as a link to AOC sharing her initial response after the Chauvin verdict. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 161 Hilary Carr Jones, social worker, writer
04/19/2021
Episode 161 Hilary Carr Jones, social worker, writer
My guest today is Hilary Carr, my beloved aunt. Hilary is a Social Worker, Writer and our family Heart-Storian! I left in a minute of pre-show dialogue where I explain this new word I made up for her. I also want to prepare you for our spotty WiFi connection - as Hil says: it’s the impact of living in the woods of Maine. Sometimes Hilary’s word are slowed down, stretched like taffy and then sped up, a tad garbled, so I did my best to edit those awkward moments, trusting that the quality of our conversation will come through. Raising 5 wonderful children, working as a Social Worker in hospitals, community centers, hospice and in private practice, Hilary’s career as a mental health advocate, resource allocator and counselor has been rich and meaningful. Hil shows up to life with curiosity, compassion and deep connection. It’s an honor to shine light on someone who has had such a profound impact on me and my life. Check out the show notes for a list of the books Hilary referenced as well as her InstaGram page. Enjoy the podcast! Links: Instagram: “
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Episode 160 Patrick Heffernan, yoga teacher, actor, dancer
04/12/2021
Episode 160 Patrick Heffernan, yoga teacher, actor, dancer
My guest today is Patrick Heffernan. Patrick is a skilled & gifted yoga teacher, actor, dancer and impassioned human. Don’t you love it when someone you love and respect introduces you to someone they love and respect and you immediately understand why they care for each other and feel blessed to join in the love fest! Well that is what I felt when introduced Patrick Heffernan into my life. Thank you, Shawna! Celebrating your kindred spirit sibling-hood with Patrick and delighting in the integrity, heart and humor you both infuse into your exceptional yoga classes and into life. I marvel at how wise someone in their early 30s can be, attributing it to Patrick being an ‘old soul’, but I also know it comes from his devoted study of the ancient wisdom of the Yoga Sutras. I so appreciate Patrick’s gift in seamlessly integrating this ancient, universal, spiritual wisdom grounded in the union of humanity and divinity in an accessible, relevant way. Check out the show notes for links to Patrick’s website and the monthly program he and Shawna offer “Journey to the Peak”, along with his newly launched, year-long program “Journey to You” and the Yoga Sutra app Patrick referenced in our conversation. Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG: Twitter: IG:
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Episode 159 Robert "Zulu" Whitaker
04/05/2021
Episode 159 Robert "Zulu" Whitaker
My guest today is Robert “Zulu” Whitaker. Zulu was released from prison in early March after serving 38 years. When my dear friend, Tarik Greene, brought Zulu with him to pick up furniture that my husband and I were donating to a new residency that MADE Transitional Services recently opened, I was so moved by Zulu’s kindness. Within a few minutes of meeting this gentle, respectful man, I invited Zulu to be a podcast guest: I wanted to provide him a forum to tell his story. And despite his nervousness, his shaking knees, Zulu began to unpack his story. I am not an investigative journalist, nor a court attorney or judge, so I had no need to get to the bottom of anything, no agenda in our conversation. I wanted to be present to what unfolded, so I simply remained curious and compassionate. As I imagined with such a long prison sentence, Zulu was convicted of murder, but wanted him to tell me what he was ready to share. In subsequent conversations with Zulu since this recording, I have discovered more about his childhood, his parents’ alcoholism, his father being sent to jail for killing his mother, his sister’s determination to keep him and his brothers alive, his year of homelessness and the ways a child and later an adult learns how to survive, in the streets, in the system, in prison. I do know Zulu’s remorse is deep and sincere and that he is searching to find meaning and purpose now that he has been released from prison. Zulu is deeply appreciative of the respect my husband and I have shown him, he has eagerly embraced the chance to be in nature, meditate, take long walks as he sorts out his past and steps humbly into his future. Enjoy the podcast. Links: Instagram-
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Episode 158 Take A Break
03/29/2021
Episode 158 Take A Break
I took a break last week and didn’t post an episode. You may not have noticed, and that’s okay. I know how busy life can be, how full many of our lives are and how hard it is to keep up with all that is in front of us. What I did notice was a different energy within myself when taking a break last week. I was kinder, gentler to myself. How lovely! An old energy that I am letting go of is the judgment and rigidity that sounded something like this: “You have to post an episode every week, you need to be consistent, it’s confusing for listeners if you skip a week.” Mmmm, not sure any of those statements are true. I do care about being consistent and I certainly don’t want to confuse my listeners, but I also think it is more important to be honest and authentic and take a break when necessary. So I figured I would mention my break, just in case you wondered why you didn’t receive an email announcing March 22nd’s episode :) Focusing on the positive meaning of a break, particularly in our capitalistic culture that rewards work-a-holism, busy-ness, and productivity, what is your perception of taking a break? How do you handle breaks? Is it easy for you to give yourself a break? Is it hard for you to give yourself a break? What makes it possible? What stops you? How do you treat your self when taking a break? How do you treat yourself after taking a break? Part of the reason I took a break from posting a podcast episode last week, was due to the fact that my husband and I had just returned from having taken a larger break. Thanks to the generosity of our dear friends, Matt and Margaret Balitsaris, we were in the Bahamas for nearly 3 weeks. Believe me that was a deep, glorious, healing break. Let go of the guilt trip and drop into the gifts that a break offers. Whether you need a break from screens, devices, social media, a break from conversation, certain people, a break from unhealthy patterns, from the violence and chaos in our world, please give yourself a break. And while taking a break, check out the show notes for a link to Memphis soul legend Rufus Thomas’ song “Break Down” and let it move you to join the phenomenal dancers in the audience who truly break down! As well as a link to Shaun King’s podcast “The Break Down” to stay present to social justice issues. May we all honor and embrace taking breaks; small breaks, large breaks, daily, weekly, monthly and seasonal breaks - it’s good for the soul! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 157 Kate Holby, co-founder of Ajiri Tea
03/15/2021
Episode 157 Kate Holby, co-founder of Ajiri Tea
My guest today is Kate Holby. Kate, together with her sister, Sara, and the appreciated support of their parents, started a small business 12 years ago, called Ajiri Tea Company. The Swahili translation of the word “Ajiri” means ‘to employ’ and that is exactly what the Holby sisters have done. Ajiri sources tea from small-scale farms in Western Kenya and employs 60 women in the Kenyan region to hand make all the packaging, using dried bark from banana trees. Ajiri asked the tea farmers and women where the profits should go, and they all agreed they wanted profits to be invested in education for the orphans in their community. 100% of profits goes directly to Orphan Education. Ajiri then hired two exceptional Kenyan social workers, who identify vulnerable orphans, providing the concrete financial support of school fees and living supplies, while also providing the emotional and psychological support to address their difficult living situations. Ajiri cares about the quality of their relationships, from their empowering relationship to the farmers and women making packages, to their social workers and Ajiri scholars, to their phenomenal, loyal customer base who believe in the mission of this truly Kenyan company. And to think that the simple act of sipping a cup of Kenyan tea could have such a positive ripple effect on the lives of so many! Check out the show notes for links to the Ajiri Tea website and their Instagram & Twitter accounts. Explore ways you can help support the inspiring work for this great company. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 156 Cheryl Seeley, educator, doula
03/08/2021
Episode 156 Cheryl Seeley, educator, doula
My guest today is Cheryl Seeley. Cheryl is an Early Childhood Educator, Director of an After-School Arts Program and a trained Doula. It’s remarkably touching to hear about the countless children and families over the past 20 years, that she has advocated for and wrapped in her loving embrace. I admired Cheryl’s courage to step out of her comfort zone and speak up about two terrifying racial assaults. She shares the context behind what pushed her to post a personal statement publicly, regarding these seemingly unrelated attacks on 2 Black men: Christian Cooper and George Floyd. Raised in a family of love, Cheryl truly is a conduit of love, light, compassion and gratitude. Check out the show notes for Cheryl's’ Instagram account to see her powerful words. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 155 Patty Forbes, psychotherapist
03/01/2021
Episode 155 Patty Forbes, psychotherapist
My guest today is Patty Forbes. In addition to being an exceptional psychotherapist, Patty is a dear friend who graciously invited me into the dying process when her beloved husband, Wayne Pedzwater, was struggling with stomach cancer 16 years ago. Wayne was a gifted, respected bass player, incredibly inspiring human being, who taught all of us who knew him, so much about living life fully, and at the all too young age of 48, about dying with dignity. Patty describes what she calls “The Gift in the Black Box”, all the life lessons that accompanied her deep loss. Patty understands what it truly means to be present, not just to her husband’s dying and death, but to be present to her own grief, to be present to moving on and finding meaning in life. She also learned about the power of choice, and how to up her game. She’s been documenting these lessons and gifts and will eventually capture her story in a book. A book I know will have relevance for all of us. Skilled psychotherapist, trusted friend, with a great sense of humor, and woman of integrity. Patty speaks of her friends being a bright light in her life, but I am blessed to have Patty Forbes as a treasured bright light in my life. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 154 Equipped With Crampons
02/22/2021
Episode 154 Equipped With Crampons
Two weeks after our 20-inch snow storm, the snow has been walked on, patted down, rained on, thawed and frozen over once again. My snowy path has transformed into an icy, crunchy, crusty, frozen path. Thank goodness for a pair of crampons a friend gave me about a month ago. It reminds me of putting on an old pair of galoshes, those rubber overshoes to protect our feet from rain. My new crampons have a rubber outline that fits over my boots, with spiked iron chains that cover the sole of my boot to prevent me from slipping on ice and snow. How appropriate for this week’s journaling from Layla Saad’s book “Me and White Supremacy” which focused on white apathy, white centering, tokenism, white savior-ism and optical allyship. The work of anti-racism and these terms can be as precarious as the icy, crunchy, frozen path I traverse. We use excuses of tiredness, procrastination, overwhelm and fear to avoid engaging in anti-racism practices, like we use excuses to avoid walking in these winter conditions. We find ourselves numb from another black person murdered by police brutality, or opting out of doing the inner work because we are overly sensitive. Both the path of anti-racism and this frozen path are tricky and pull us out of our comfort zone, however each offers healing and beauty, we would otherwise miss out on. We can equip ourselves with resources, so please throw on your crampons, and take a winter walk with me! What we first deemed treacherous is now manageable and worth every step of the journey! I am equipping myself with courage and crampons, for this frozen path has much to teach me. After all, beneath the layers of crusty, snow and ice, lies the promise of spring! Even though the thick layers of winter snow and ice prevent us from seeing all the seeds of spring that lay below the surface, may we trust in a world that will thaw and transform our racism. As the earth begins to warm up and everything begins to grow, may our hearts warm up so we can cultivate racial healing, equity and justice. Check out the show notes for links to books and movies referenced. Links:
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Episode 153 What Am I Doing About It?
02/15/2021
Episode 153 What Am I Doing About It?
Today we enter Week Three of Black History Month. I am moved by all the tributes on television and social media to Black artists, activists, trailblazers and truthsayers. May these tributes be infused in us, not just this month, but throughout the year, throughout our lives. Let us stay aware and awake to the courage and sacrifices made, as we all do our part to contribute to cultivating true racial justice. In honor of Black History Month, I’ve decided to do more inner work on racism in order to face my white privilege and take responsibility on a deeper level to dismantle white supremacy. Author Layla Saad provides a very helpful guide in her book “Me and White Supremacy” as I continue to read and dive into her prompts for meaningful journaling. Toni Morrison’s powerful words years ago when interviewed by Charlie Rose, took white supremacy to task by emphasizing that racism is a white person’s responsibility to address.“If you can only be tall because somebody is on their knees, then you have a serious problem. And my feeling is white people have a very, very serious problem. And they should start thinking about what they can do about it. Take me out of it.” Racism is crazy, it is a neurosis, a cancer that will continue to metastasize in this country unless we, white people do our part to face it, be uncomfortable, inconvenienced and take responsibility for dismantling it. We have a serious problem, a very, very serious problem. What are we going to do about it? One concrete thing I am doing about it is letting the journal prompts from “Me and White Supremacy” take root. Having just completed Week Two in Saad’s book, I was grateful to reflect on the topics of Anti-Blackness, Racial Stereotypes and Cultural Appropriation. This book and these journal prompts call me to go within, to stop making it about other people. Who am I? How do I respond? Can I find meaningful ways to engage with other white people about our race, about our responsibility in creating, sustaining and benefiting from white privilege? Can I stop my mental gymnastics that prevent me from seeing my own race or what my race has done to Black, Indigenous People of Color? This past year I’ve also added Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), those working for equal justice and prison reform, social justice activists, enlightened political and spiritual leaders, those terrorized by police brutality and white supremacy to my daily Metta meditation. I think of these individuals and groups of people everyday, holding them close to my heart. I typically say these meditations while walking up to the top of Hook Mountain, but if I am not at the mountain, I make sure to say this wherever I am: sitting on my meditation cushion, walking in the woods, by the river, skiing, biking, wherever… This is a small, humble way I personally take responsibility for my thoughts and beliefs. As Layla Saad says: “Create the change the world needs by creating change within yourself.”I take this very, very serious problem of racism to heart and will continue to create change within myself. May you be inspired to do your inner work. Check out the links below to hear Toni Morrison’s interview with Charlie Rose and access the book “Me and White Supremacy”. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 152 Snowy Path
02/08/2021
Episode 152 Snowy Path
This is the second week of Black History Month and I am entering Week Two of my reading and journaling of “Me and White Supremacy”. We had nearly two feet of snow this past week and I found my snow walks in the woods to be a helpful place to process some of the thoughts that surfaced for me. I ventured out last Monday after 12 hours of snowfall. Oh how inviting! The snow was magical, quiet, a perfect setting to be present to the peaceful beauty around me, while letting thoughts about white supremacy, my white supremacy emerge. As I was sorting though these memories, the wooded trail had not yet been walked on and I found myself lifting my knees high toward my chest and then sinking down knee deep into the untouched, powdery snow. What an appropriate metaphor this snowy path is for walking the internal path of white supremacy. As I turned inward to take an honest look at my white privilege, white fragility, tone policing, white silence, white superiority, and white exceptionalism, I realized I was working up a sweat. My high knee lifting and stomping feet provided a good cardio work out as I delved deeper into these concepts/memories/images. I began to think of the ancestors that have literally and figuratively walked before me. You see, I guess we all have a blend of ancestors, those who have addressed and grappled with white supremacy, those who denied or ignored it. I have both ancestors who were active members of the underground railroad and ancestors who were slave owners. They all run through my blood and it is a heavy load. Oh my, the guilt and shame is tangible, like these heavy, laborious steps in this deep snow. It takes energy, perseverance and stamina for me to stay on the path, to not get lost in the woods of my mind, not let the intensity of pain paralyze me on my journey. I whispered to myself: “Stay true, Deb, face the ugly truth and the inspiring truth. Don’t turn away from the disturbing emotions, be with them, learn from them. As the snow melts around me, may my conditioned white supremacy also melt. May I tell the truth to myself and others with integrity. May I cultivate the courage to speak up and out whenever I witness racist behavior. May I continue to embody more fully anti-racist thoughts, words and actions. May I devote myself to healing and restoring dignity of all Black, Indigenous, People of Color. And…may you also find meaningful ways to honor Black History month. Check out the links to learn more about Layla Saad, her website, podcast and purchase her book “Me and White Supremacy”. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 151 Me and White Supremacy
02/01/2021
Episode 151 Me and White Supremacy
Since launching this podcast in January 2018, it has been important for me to represent people of color throughout the year. In addition, I have ensured that during Black History month, the entire month of February, featured black guests. This year I thought it would be appropriate to focus on the responsibility white people have in dismantling white supremacy, which is the root of racism. I personally am dedicated to doing as much as possible to stay aware of my white privilege and use that awareness to challenge and check in, if I am, in fact, thinking, speaking or acting in anti-racist ways. This year, for Black History month I’ll be reading Layla Saad’s book “Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor”. The book is designed as a 28 day challenge, so I think it is a perfect way for me, and I invite all my white listeners to join me, to rethink our part in healing and restoring dignity to Black Indigenous People Of Color. There are so many gems in this book, from the quotes inscribed in the front and back of the book, to the Forward written by Dr. Robin Di Angelo, to Saad’s openness, vulnerability, humility and bold courage, guiding the readers to do the critical inner work. The quote in the front of the book reads: “Create the change the world needs by creating change within yourself.” The quote at the back of the book reads: “You can not dismantle what you cannot see. You cannot challenge what you do not understand.” So today is February 1st, the start of the month, the start of Black History Month, and an opportunity for white people to participate differently in Black History Month - a month that only exists because of the glaring racial inequity in this country. For Black History month, I want to start a deeper, pro-active journey in doing the inner work to dismantle white supremacy. How much more energy, courage and trust it takes to feel the feelings, sit with the unbearableness of racism and oppression, re-awaken to our humanity, channel our pain, guilt and shame into action and change. Let’s raise our consciousness and acknowledge how we knowingly and unknowingly benefit from racists policies and systems. I hope you will join me in reflecting, journaling, processing, so we are ready and able to make meaningful, tangible shifts to dismantle white supremacy. The work of anti-racism is not a one time event, or simply accomplished by completing a 28 day challenge. I know it is a life long commitment, but I believe, for this moment, this is a good place to start. May you find a meaningful way to truly honor Black History Month. Check out the links below to learn more about Layla Saad, her website, podcast and purchase her book “Me and White Supremacy”. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 150 Afterglow
01/25/2021
Episode 150 Afterglow
Not sure if you are still feeling the afterglow from the Day of Inauguration on Wednesday, January 20th, when Joe Biden and Kamala Harris were sworn in as President and Vice President of the United States, but I certainly am! I can easily access how moved I felt, how inspired, nourished and invigorated I was by the colors, vibrancy, decency, respect and refreshing HOPE that infused the ceremony and celebrations. The afterglow is still alive for me and when it fades, it doesn’t take much effort to re-ignite it. In fact, all I have to do is recall an image, a person, an outfit, an exchange, a gesture, or words expressed and the positive vibes course again through my body. In today’s episode I highlight our hero, the brave Eugene Goodman, our brilliant ray of light, Amanda Gorman and the endearing, playful tribute to Bernie Sanders, whose memes showed up in every nook and cranny, with people and in places that we truly need him. I’ve re-listened, re-watched Amanda’s performance of “The Hill We Climb” - I encourage you to let her words shower you with possibility, potential and passion. Here is the last stanza in her poem: “In every known nook of our nation, in every corner called our country, our people, diverse and beautiful, will emerge, battered and beautiful. When day comes, we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid. The new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” Remind yourself of how your soul was nourished by poignant prayers, sincere speeches, sweet songs and powerful poetry - stoke the afterglow when you need a little boost. Let the tears flow, goose bumps tingle, cleanse the toxicity. The more I focus on the glow of Inauguration Day, the more it expands, so I encourage you to talk about it, highlight your favorite moments and share those moments in solidarity with your circles. We need to support each other as we face the layers of challenges ahead. May we do so with courage, compassion and a belief in our shared humanity. Check out the show notes for a variety of links that pay tribute to Eugene Goodman, Amanda Gorman and Bernie Sanders. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 149 Thana Alexa, vocalist, composer, producer
01/18/2021
Episode 149 Thana Alexa, vocalist, composer, producer
Last week I provided the link to hear my friend, Margaret Dulaney’s story “The Age of Atrocity”, where she encourages us to let goodness, kindness, honor and love shine, even in the midst of atrocity. Well, my guest today is someone who embodies such an enlightened perspective. On the day that domestic terrorists stormed the U. S. Capitol, a dear friend of today’s guest lost their home and everything they owned in an electrical fire. Listen to how today’s guest created a relief fund for her friend, and to the power of kindness and generosity. My guest today is Thana Alexa. Thana is an extraordinarily creative vocalist, loop artist, composer and producer. Thana’s self-released, debut album “Ona”, which means “She” in her native Croatian language, has been nominated for a Grammy in the Best Jazz Vocal Album category. Thana credits her empowering experience at the 2017 Women’s March in D.C. as the inspiration for “Ona”. She was moved by the stories of women, the voices of women, particularly the maternal lineage of immigrant women. “Ona” poignantly reflects Thana’s strength and authenticity, while capturing the cross-cultural, cross-generational universal messages that women carry throughout history. This completely grassroots, independent project, with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, paved the way for astounding, surprising, beautiful things to happen. Thana’s expansive open heart reaches beyond her musical career. Thana infuses her life with compassion, integrity and a deep belief in the human spirit. Check out the links for Thana’s website, listen to her inspiring album “Ona”, watch the beautiful music video, and please help her raise much needed funds for her dear friend with cerebral palsy, CJ Shearn. Enjoy the podcast! Links: Instagram: Margaret Dulaney's Listen Well:
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Episode 148 Truth and Hope
01/11/2021
Episode 148 Truth and Hope
In my meditations this week, the two words that have comforted me, held me and inspired me are truth and hope. Not just as words or concepts, but as felt experiences. This past week has been an intense one, to say the least! We’ve had to process the trauma of the appalling insurrection of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday January 6th. As painful as it is to face the harsh reality of white supremacy in America, I was relieved, dare I say, refreshed by the articulate, direct truth spoken by Brittany Packnett Cunningham. She spoke a piercing truth on program on Wednesday night. And once again I felt, deep to the core of my being, that truth will set us free! to hear a truth we all must face. In fact, listen to it a few times to let it sink in. Thank you, Brittany, for speaking such a courageous, direct TRUTH! I am so grateful to once again be uplifted by the wisdom and compassion of my dear friend Margaret Dulaney. Her recent story called “ from her Listen Wellpodcast, was just what I needed to hear. She provides examples of how these atrocities, thought history and all over the world, have not stopped some people from shining their light. Margaret says that “honor, goodness, love, charity, kindness, shine with spectacular light against the backdrop of atrocity. The hero’s light often emerges when humanity’s light goes dim.” Please listen to , to see if it might inspire the hero within you to emerge. Let Margaret’s insights and wisdom center you, inspire you to be kind, choose love and creativity, over fear and paralysis, precisely in the midst of these dark, despairing days. May kindness and light carry you through, help you spark your own hope for yourself and our future. Thank you, Margaret, for cultivating HOPE in humanity! Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 147 Reflections of 2020
01/04/2021
Episode 147 Reflections of 2020
As we step into the New Year, it is common for us to take a moment to reflect on this past year. I wanted to start off the year, and the beginning of our fourth year of the podcast, by thanking my guests from 2020. In the year 2020, we had a total of 28 guests; 13 guests came to my home office to record our conversation, and 15 guests were recorded via Zoom. This past year, I shared 21 stories or guided meditations, some as short as 5 minutes, but mostly 10-20 minutes long. I told personal stories, processed currents events, focusing on the uncertainty, struggles and loss so many experienced due to Covid-19, reflected on the courageous, much needed racial justice movement, social justice advocates and grassroots efforts throughout our country. I vented about the appalling politicians that stubbornly attempted to dismantle our democracy with a blatant lack of decency, respect and empathy - particularly oppressing the marginalized and most vulnerable. Many of us are still longing for humanity to be restored, and know that will be a long road ahead. But through all the difficulties of 2020, I sought to deepen my compassion, expand my gratitude and find the spiritual lessons, the opportunities for learning and growth. The desire to see the silver linings, find the gratitude, let go of illusions, be present to what is, in fact guides us on the enlightened path. Hoping that my guests and stories this past year helped to uplift and inspire you along the way. HEARTFELT THANKS to my 2020 guests! May we all deepen our compassion for ourselves and each other, strengthen our commitment to racial and social justice, stay safe and healthy and live more confidently into the fullness of our potential. Blessings for a refreshing, empowering, healing New Year! Enjoy the podcast! We launched a fundraiser in late 2020! Tarik Greene and Toney Earl, Jr. co-founded MADE, a grassroots organization to address the needs of formerly incarcerated people. MADE stands for Making A Difference Everyday. Our bass playing daughter, her drummer husband and a circle of their talented musician friends recorded an album in November 2019, thanks to the generosity of Matt and Margaret Balitsaris, to raise money for Tarik and Toney’s program. Please join us in making a difference for an easily forgotten, marginalized group of people. We’re happy to announce that along with the digital downloads that are available at , MADE Transitions is offering physical . The CDs contain 3 additional bonus tracks not available at . Please check out my to watch videos of the musicians in Matt Balitsaris’ recording studio. Thanks for your continued support. The MADE Project/GLOW album: (Digital Downloads) (Glow CD orders)
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Episode 146 Louis Cato, musician, multi-instrumentalist, producer
12/21/2020
Episode 146 Louis Cato, musician, multi-instrumentalist, producer
My guest today is Louis Cato. Louis is beyond talented; he is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and producer. In fact, the time we set aside to record this conversation was cut short because he had last minute television recording demands. Louis was gracious enough to squeeze in 20 minutes to talk with me, amidst his extremely busy schedule and I am so grateful he did. Louis is a member of Jon Batiste and Stay Human, the house band for“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” on CBS, has recorded with Beyonce, Q-Tip, John Legend, Mariah Carey and toured with Bobby McFerrin, Snarky Puppy, Marcus Miller, and David Sanborn, to name a few. As impressive as his internationally acclaimed status is in the music world is, there is more that inspires me about Louis Cato. I am inspired by Louis’ large heart, his generosity, authenticity, kindness and his humility truly floors me. Even in 20 minutes you will hear the purity of his spirit shining through. Follow Louis on Instagram to receive weekly soul-nourishment from his Cato Covers. Check out the links below for Louis’ website and to follow this creative genius on Instagram. Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG:
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Episode 145 Gail Hovey, author
12/14/2020
Episode 145 Gail Hovey, author
My guest today is Gail Hovey. Gail is an inspiring author, editor, and activist who I recently met when she was invited to my book group. We had just read her newly published memoir: “She Said God Blessed Us: A Life Marked by Childhood Sexual Abuse in the Church” and we were thrilled to get to know the author. What a beautifully written memoir that sheds light on a largely invisible issue of sexual abuse by women. Georgia, a seminary-trained Christian Education Director was brilliant, charismatic and used the language of faith to seduce 16 year-old Gail and other teenage girls in the church. Nearly a 40 year process, Gail found the language to understand what happened to her, the courage to express her experience and finally put in writing the impact her relationship with Georgia had over her. Gail understands the importance of truth telling not just through her personal memoir, but what a crucial time it is in our country, in the world, for us to be telling the truth, facing the truth and taking responsibility for the truth, individually and collectively. Gail’s story poignantly embodies the more accurate, complicated, nuanced layers of life, of trauma, of sexuality, of love. She breaks through the false narratives of dichotomous thinking, demonstrating that our experiences are not one-dimensional: either/or; gay/straight; male/female; right/wrong. Gail’s life provides a rich history, from the 1950’s of the perceptions around religion, sexuality, feminism, activism, race, culture, the healing power of therapy and writing. Check out these links for Gail’s website and to online, if you are not able to purchase it at your local, independent bookstore. Enjoy the podcast and I encourage you to read her book! Have you heard? We launched a fundraiser! Tarik Greene and Toney Earl, Jr. co-founded MADE, a grassroots organization to address the needs of formerly incarcerated people. MADE stands for Making A Difference Everyday. Our bass playing daughter, her drummer husband and a circle of their talented musician friends recorded an album last year, thanks to the generosity of Matt and Margaret Balitsaris, to raise money for Tarik and Toney’s program. Please join us in making a difference for an easily forgotten, marginalized group of people. We’re happy to announce that along with the digital downloads that are available at , MADE Transitions is offering physical . The CDs contain 3 additional bonus tracks not available at . Thanks for your continued support. Links: The MADE Project/GLOW album: (Digital Downloads) (Glow CD orders)
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Episode 144 Alvin Ailey's Revelations at 60!
12/07/2020
Episode 144 Alvin Ailey's Revelations at 60!
In today’s episode I pay tribute to Alvin Ailey’s iconic masterpiece “Revelations”, celebrating its 60th anniversary. I reminisce about the 50 years this dance has been in my life: as an audience member since I was 12, a teen dancer that learned excerpts of the choreography, a passionate facilitator to introduce “Revelations” to newbies, an enthusiast who delighted in sharing these performances with many friends and family, to the proud wife of the bass player in Ailey’s wonderful band that accompanies a glorious gospel choir. I miss seeing the live performance this year and particularly miss the extended family of all involved in this production. As we mourn the loss of people, places and performances that can’t be experienced in person, I am focused on the hope, inspiration and joy captured in “Revelations”. I appreciate all that the magnificent Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater stands for and embodies. I am deeply grateful for the warm, inclusive, loving embrace I experience when in the presence of Ailey’s band, spirited choir and exquisite dancers. I’ll let that sustain me till we meet again in person. Checkout the links below to watch the Opening Night Virtual Benefit and links to my previous podcast guests representing a musician, 2 choir members and a dancer/Associate Artistic director of the company. Enjoy the podcast! Thanks to everyone who supported and donated to the MADE fundraiser we launched last week. Tarik Greene and Toney Earl, Jr. co-founded MADE, a grassroots organization to address the needs of formerly incarcerated people. MADE stands for Making A Difference Everyday. Please join us in making a difference for an easily forgotten, marginalized group of people. Our bass playing daughter, her drummer husband and a circle of their talented musician friends recorded an album last year, thanks to the generosity of Matt and Margaret Balitsaris, to raise money for Tarik and Toney’s program. We’re happy to announce that along with the digital downloads that are available at , is offering physical CDs for purchase. The CDs contain 3 additional bonus tracks not available at . Thanks for your continued support. Links: Enlighten Podcast Episodes featuring: (Ailey percussionist) (choir member) (choir member) (Alvin Ailey Associate Artistic Director) The MADE Project/GLOW album: (Digital Downloads) (Glow CD orders)
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Episode 143 Say It With Six
11/30/2020
Episode 143 Say It With Six
We are launching a fundraiser this week for . Tarik Greene and Toney Earl, Jr. co-founded MADE, a grassroots organization to address the needs of formerly incarcerated people. MADE stands for Making A Difference Everyday. Please join us in making a difference for an easily forgotten, marginalized group of people. Our bass playing daughter, her drummer husband and a circle of their talented musician friends recorded an album last year, thanks to the generosity of Matt and Margaret Balitsaris, to raise money for Tarik and Toney’s program. Check out the links below to hear their music, purchase the album and view my which features 5 songs filmed by our son, Wil Adamy, during the recording of the album. Special note: waives their commission the first Friday of every month, so if you purchase their music this Friday December 4th, 100% of the proceeds will go to MADE Transitions. Thank you so much for your support! In this week’s episode, Deborah takes about 6 minutes to share the power of expressing ourselves in 6 words. From Hemingway, to Larry Smith to the NY Times, with friends and family, see how six-word stories are capturing our hearts and imagination. Six words: succinct, poignant, igniting imagery, emotion & heart. I highly recommend giving this a try. Explore a wide range of topics to play around with this 6 word writing exercise: from your memoir, to what you are thankful for, to what you long for in your personal life, your career, the world, to a walk in the woods, to summarizing your day. “Keeping this episode short, sweet simple.” Check out the link below to the and learn more about all the ways Larry Smith has expanded this six word project. Enjoy the podcast! Links: (Digital Downloads)
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Episode 142 Within Reach
11/23/2020
Episode 142 Within Reach
Most of us can agree that 2020 has been a very difficult year. I am finally feeling some positive energy within reach, thanks to the election win of Biden/Harris. Where were you when you learned that Biden/Harris had finally been declared President and Vice-President of the United States? What feelings surfaced for you? I bet you have a story to tell. So many stories have been shared formally and informally of where people were and how they found out the joyous news. The Biden/Harris win ignited tremendous joy throughout the country and around the world. Countless celebrations erupted from big cities to small towns, infused with an outpouring of spirited, enthusiastic banner-waving, singing, dancing, live musicians, DJs and solidarity. Saturday November 7th, 2020 provided a day of release, relief, hope and joy! Even with that day of joy and celebration, I know there is a tremendous amount of work before us, individually and collectively. I pray that the Biden administration follows through on advocating for equal justice, prison reform, justice for all the families who have lost a loved one to police brutality and white supremacy. Trump is still having his temper tantrums, refusing to accept the results and doing as much damage while he can. Regardless of Trump’s irresponsible, narcissistic, disrespectful antics, we get to watch ourselves respond. What do you notice in yourself? Do you get pulled into the drama? Do the external circumstances throw you off your center? How do you practice ways to stay grounded? How do care for yourself in the midst of the chaos? What thoughts or spiritual practices calm you? What are you reaching for? What feels within reach for you? May positive energy, joy, justice, healing, balance, order, decency and democracy be within our reach. Enjoy the podcast. Links: IG:
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Episode 141 Shawna Emerick, Yoga Teacher, Thai Bodywork Therapist, Life Coach
11/16/2020
Episode 141 Shawna Emerick, Yoga Teacher, Thai Bodywork Therapist, Life Coach
We recorded this podcast just yesterday and did what was necessary to release it within 24 hours because our guest has 2 exciting projects that are happening this week and we wanted to get the word out to everyone as soon as possible. One workshop takes place this coming Sunday November 22nd, the first in a series, called of monthly yoga workshops to deepen your physical practice while supporting grassroots organizations. The other is a 4 month program, called that begins this Wednesday November 18th. Hopefully you will be able to participate in at least one, if not both of these meaningful offerings. So my guest today is Shawna Emerick. Shawna was a guest 2 years ago and is a gifted Yoga Teacher, Thai Bodywork Therapist, Life Coach and Spiritual Activist. Shawna brings such heart and integrity to everything she does and it is truly a joy to shine light on Shawna once again. Yes, I encourage everyone to take a yoga class, workshop or retreat from Shawna or experience her balancing Thai massage healing touch, or receive the insightful guidance from Shawna’s life coaching. And I want everyone to support either directly or indirectly her series - it means so much to me that Shawna chose MADE Transitions as the first organization in her series. Shawna also describes her program that she is co-facilitating and co-creating with Liz Moyer. She’ll describe both and more in today’s conversation. Please check out the show notes for links to Shawna’s email, website, and how to follow her on social media. Enjoy the podcast! Links: email: IG: IG:
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Episode 140 Spread The Love
11/09/2020
Episode 140 Spread The Love
The Monday before election day, a friend had posted this quote: “Shout out to anyone doing their part to spread love and raise the vibration of the planet. I know this lingo can sound a little weird to some people, but seriously, if you’re out here uplifting people and spreading love, I appreciate you so damn much.” Well, I’m out here trying to uplift people and spreading love as I know most of you are. I recorded this podcast on Wednesday 11/4, the day after Election Day, when we were still waiting for every vote to be counted. Who do I want to be if Biden wins our election? Who ought I be if Trump wins? I want to show up with integrity and love, to every moment of life. I want to show up with gratitude and appreciation of all the progress we’ve made as well as a determination to keep fighting for equality, justice and advocating for the dignity of every human being. I want to show up with an inner sense of peace, knowing that no one is free if others are oppressed. By the time this airs, on Monday 11/9, we hopefully will learn that Joe Biden has won the popular and electoral votes and is now the next President of the United States. We, therefore are taking a collective sigh of relief knowing that we can now begin the challenging work ahead to restore our country, our democracy and most of all to heal humanity. As Eckhart Tolle says: “Your unhappiness ultimately arises not from the circumstances of your life but from the conditioning of your mind.” So let’s look at the conditioning of our minds. We have been well-conditioned by worry, anxiety and fear. So even in these stressful days of waiting for justice to prevail, we can practice noticing our thoughts, notice what thoughts calm us and what thoughts unsettle us. We can master our minds when we dare to be present to what is. And for most of us, what is, is a lot of uncertainty. Be present to the uncertainty, be present to the unknown. Or as Ram Das said: “Be Here Now!” In this waiting period, like any waiting period throughout our lives, we are being challenged to not fuel the worry and nervousness, but to let the anxiety dissolve naturally. Focus your thoughts on the change we wish to see. As John Lewis said, “Change requires patient, persistent action.” Regardless of the outcome of this election, we have a lot of important work ahead of us. It’s as critical that we undo our fear-driven mental conditioning and do the inner work of raising consciousness and cultivating mindfulness. May we dissolve our anxiety, focus on the love, stay devoted to the dignity of every human being, act from oneness, drop into silence and stillness and embrace compassion. Let’s all do our part to uplift others, raise the vibration of the planet, keep spreading the love. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 139 Love Is In The Air
11/02/2020
Episode 139 Love Is In The Air
Love is in the air, do you feel it?!? I do and if you pay attention, you will see it, hear it, and feel it, too! Love is in the air; love is all around us! There's an outpouring of love: in lawn signs, in mindsets, in the kindness from strangers, in celebrations of anniversaries, birthdays, in protestors, in a record turn out of determined voters, in joyful dancers, in community volunteers and in song. Who have you showered with love lately? Watch the released with Jennifer Hudson of their song “Where is the Love?” I’ve always loved that song, but it now means so much more to me, these days as we all find creative ways to find the love, show up to the challenges with more love. Where is the love? The love is inside each one of us, focus on love, let’s keep generating the healing power of love! What we focus on increases, so let's grow this love! As Stevie Wonder sings in “Love's in Need of Love” What I’m about to say could mean the world’s disaster. Could change your joy and laughter to tears and pain. It’s that love’s in need of love today. Don’t delay send yours in right away. Hate's going around breaking many hearts, Stop it please before its gone too far. The force of evil plans to make you its possession and it will if we let it destroy everybody We all must take precautionary measures, If love and peace you treasure, then you’ll hear me when I say, That love’s in need of love today. Don’t delay send yours in right away. May we abide in love as we enter this next chapter of our democracy. Check out the show notes to find links to Margaret Dulaney's Listen Well podcast as well as my playlist of Love Songs. Enjoy the podcast! Links: Songs: (YouTube)
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Episode 138 Kristin Richardson Jordan, teacher, poet, social justice activist
10/26/2020
Episode 138 Kristin Richardson Jordan, teacher, poet, social justice activist
My guest today is Kristin Richardson Jordan, also known, simply as her initials: KRJ. Kristin is a teacher, poet, social justice activist and spiritual warrior, who is currently running for New York City Council in District 9, Central Harlem. She is in no manner a typical politician, in fact KRJ’s refreshing platform is radical love! She explains that love is the base for meaningful change, for action, for organizing; love is the foundation for making the world a better place. If elected, Kristin would be the youngest ever, first openly LGBTQ person to hold this office in this district. KRJ is a 3rd generation Harlemite, who cares deeply about her community, particularly investing time, energy and resources in what nourishes and uplifts the community, not what destroys and divides it. Kristin is a graduate from Brown University where she double majored in Literary Arts and Afrikana Studies and as fitting with the Black Radical Tradition, has infused her passions into creative, imaginative ways to address the political challenges that face Harlem. As eager as I was to have my conversation with KRJ released before election day, I learned that voting for city council is not this November, but in June of 2021. So you have plenty of time to learn about KRJ and join me in following her progress and supporting KRJ’s vision of transformative love. Check out the links below to Kristin’s website , her social media accounts, the 2 books she has published and the some of the resources she mentioned. Enjoy the podcast! Links: FB: IG: Twitter: Books:
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Episode 137 Compassion Beads
10/19/2020
Episode 137 Compassion Beads
This week I share a short, simple exercise called the “Compassion Beads”. The premise is that compassion is part of our DNA and can be nourished and cultivated with intention and mindfulness. Biologically, compassion decreases levels of stress, boosts our immune system and helps us feel calm. Using a simple alphabetical mnemonic device, which provides a memory tool, the compassion beads, start with the letter C, and end with the letter L, or think of it this way: the beads start with COMPASSION and end with LOVE. The beads take you through 10 words, in alphabetical order that cultivate a calming, inner state of mind. Each bead represents one of the following words: Compassion, Dignity, Equanimity, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Humility, Integrity, Justice, Kindness and Love. Dr. James Doty, a neurosurgeon who has dedicated over 15 years to studying compassion, altruism and empathy, calls these 10 words the alphabet of the heart. A golden bead added at the end of the 10 words is a reminder of the golden rule: treat others the way you want to be treated. Even without physical beads to hold onto, you can feel the effects of this exercise. I lead a brief meditation to demonstrate how to use the compassion beads. Check out the links to the San Antonio Peace Center and to CCARE: Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. Feel free to make your own beads. You can easily carry them in your pocket or purse, a tangible reminder that compassion and peace are within reach and at your fingertips. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 136 S.O.S. and Poetry Plum
10/12/2020
Episode 136 S.O.S. and Poetry Plum
In the midst of more racial atrocities, pandemic chaos, political head-spinning, urgent climate concerns, and violent acts of domestic terrorism, I know we are all doing the best we can to get through our days. Hopefully we are focusing on what sustains our souls, as I’ve mentioned in the past 3 episodes. Getting through the day, includes simple tasks, routines, chores, as well as little and big decisions. I also know that the daily experiences of living, mundane and insignificant as it can seem, can momentarily draw us out from under the weight of the world. Sometimes, if we are lucky, getting through the day can hold moments of laughter. It can be as small as something that makes you smile, or ignites a subtle giggle or as cathartic as a big doubled over, belly laugh. I sure appreciate the release of laughter and realize that laughter itself, is a great soul sustainer. To access the joyous relief of laughter, it helps not to take ourselves too seriously. That actually feels like a conscious, mindful choice on our life journey - to not take ourselves too seriously. Learning to laugh at ourselves, even when there has been a misunderstanding or when we’ve made a big mistake, is as important as any other tool we incorporate into our spiritual practice. On this week's podcast, I share 2 personal stories that remind me how important laughter is. What has made you laugh recently? May you find the healing release of laughter this week. Let laughter usher in some playfulness and joy. Let us add laughter to our important threads that sustains our souls. Enjoy the podcast.
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Episode 135 Heart Centered Guided Meditation
10/05/2020
Episode 135 Heart Centered Guided Meditation
I heard wonderful feedback about the last 2 episodes from listeners who really enjoyed hearing shorter, personal stories. Thank you! So today will be another offering from me. Whoa, what a week we just weathered!! From Trump’s disgraceful, abusive behavior during the first presidential debate to learning this past Friday that he and Melania tested positive for the Covid-19. Like many of us, I walk a very fine line between wanting to be informed yet not wanting to be sucked into the chaos that Trump propogates. I tune into current events incrementally and from as many grounded sources that avoid the hype and fear-mongering drama. Even the program title of Jessica Yellin’s Instagram: “News Not Noise” is my style of being informed. So even though there was nothing surprising about the way Trump conducted himself during Tuesday night’s debate, after all he was in character; he blatantly assaulted everyone of us. Trump’s disrespectful, demeaning, loud, rude, bullying, name-calling, manipulative attacks targeted first at Joe Biden, then the moderator, Chris Wallace, and then clearly at every one of us tuning in. When the 90 minute debate was finally over, I found myself trying to shake off the energetic slime before going to bed that night. Wriggling my hands, flailing my arms, even karate kicking my legs into the air to release all the negativity. And then I thought how do I shake free from the hostile images of Trump spewing, interrupting, lying, diverting? In addition to my body that was needing to release the slime, I wanted to clear my mind. Otherwise, I was bound to have nightmares!! I was relieved to have readily available my . I lay down, turned on the episode and immediately began to breathe slower and deeper. Perfect for moments like these, and I actually fell asleep quickly and slept through the night peacefully. We are being asked to flex our resilience muscles, through the pandemic over these past 6 months, through the debacle of this last debate and as we approach more political and pandemic uncertainty ahead. Many of us keep rebounding from all this adversity, learning how to resiliently withstand and expand, in the face of despair. It takes a toll on our hearts. Since our hearts have been recently stressed, pulled and yanked so intensely, I felt drawn to offer you another guided meditation. This one is for our hearts. May it help build heart resiliency and tenderness. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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