:: narrative ::

What brings you joy?

Just a few moments ago I posted a reflection on a momentary joy on my other blog, and was struck by the realization that the way in which we experience and frame joy may have interesting connections in terms of personality, agency, and outlook.

• Is joy to you an inward thing you find yourself?
  
• Is joy a shared experience with a loved one?
  
• The accomplishment of a task or project?
  
• The weaving of a dream?
  
• The absence of restrictions and limitations?

Think of a moment in your life you would describe as utterly joyful and let yourself re-experience it. Feel it fully. Smell the smells. See the sights. Feel the touch. Taste the taste. What does joy feel like for you? Where are you, what's happening, and who are you with?

The answers may mirror back some interesting threads you can weave into your day today. Try it and see (I'm going to). Feel free to share anything you discover in a comment on this post. :)

Wishing you joy today!

posted by Katherine Murray @ 9:58 AM 0 comments

Themes worth exploring

Today is the birthday of Turkish writer Orhan Pamuk (nod to Writer's Almanac), and here is a quote that to me points directly to the power and potential of narrative:

"What literature needs most to tell and investigate today are humanity's basic fears: the fear of being left outside, and the fear of counting for nothing, and the feelings of worthlessness that come with such fears…"

Whether we work with clients or just live and love alongside others, isn't this what we're doing for each other all the time? We mitigate these fears through community, inclusion, self-awareness, openness, love. They are the mantle of humanity--the fear that we are really separate and not One. Narrative--when we are using is awake, aware, and fully present--is the ship that carries us to another's shore and helps us expand their horizon in their own language.

posted by Katherine Murray @ 7:57 AM 0 comments