Deep gladness of heart

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A few thoughts to share with you about gladness of heart during these times.

Michael McKnight, who continues to inspire me with his wisdom on all matters learning, teaching & life-related, posted this meme on LinkedIn today, which sent me off on a treasure hunt!

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Given my current headspace of completing the writing of my doctoral thesis, I (of course!) went on a quest down the rabbit-hole of Google to find more information.  What I found was Frederick Beuchner’s website, with his original quote: ‘The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet‘. Whilst not a religious person, instead identifying myself as deeply spiritual, I have the greatest appreciation for the message that speaks to me in Beuchner’s quote. It is indeed a deep-seated gladness of heart that inspires and draws out the best of ourselves as we navigate the world around us.

On my Google quest I also came across connections between the work of Beuchner and Parker Palmer and thought to include reference to Palmer’s magnificent body of work around teaching as an act of love (I’m a bit of a fan!)… 

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And finally, as we reflect on these times of social isolation and distancing and the unique challenges they bring to each of us, some thoughts from Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation (QORF): ‘Who do I want to be during covid-19?’

I hope you go on your own quest ‘down the rabbit hole’ to find something that speaks to your glad heart. Blessings to you all as you navigate these times.

 

 

About Jennifer K Miles

I am an educator, researcher and writer, passionate about storytelling and its power to change perspectives of self. Through undertaking the journey of my own transformative learning, I now work with adults to support them in drawing forth stories of the strength and potential gained in their lives, as they move towards the creation of their stories as yet untold. My three beautiful adult boys are the most precious part of my story, and continue to walk with and support me in undertaking my PhD research. I write about story and transformative learning ... the circumstances of our lives and the stories remembered; influences on the construction of our self-identities - positive and negative; critiquing the assumptions and limitations we have come to accept about ourselves, our potential, and our place in life; daring to imagine a story untold.

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