A few years ago, my wife and I looked around our home and realized we had enough stuff. It was then that we began focusing our energies and finances on experiences rather than collecting more things. What a wonderful mind-shift this has been, and it has been much more fulfilling.
Also, Verghese's "The Covenant of Water" was my book of the year last year, and I read "Cutting for Stone" this year. He is a master at his craft. I have not read any of Robin Kimmerer's books yet, but I have several on my TBR.
Your book of the year…I actually think I knew that from some of your past writing. In person, he was a mesmerizing speaker—so wise and grounded. He talked about how the threads woven in that story were fragments from his families life when they lived in Ethiopia. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Such a terrific part of your journey, Kert. Thanks for sharing. I am a big fan of Robin, not so familiar with Verghese, and appreciate the link. Friend of mine was a speaker at the Chautauqua Campground in Chautauqua, New York for several seasons many years ago. Another, similar movement is Elderhostel from 1975 to 2010 after which it became Road Scholar.
Serious intellectual engagement and exchange is in short supply and your worry is well founded. When the average reading level of 54% of adults in the U.S. is 6th grade and below, you know there’s a problem with people being able to think for themselves and draw their own conclusions, make informed judgments and help solve problems.
Super interesting well crafted essay, Kert! I learnt something new and I appreciate you for it 💓
You’ve brightened my day! Thank you Mohika, grateful am I for you.
A few years ago, my wife and I looked around our home and realized we had enough stuff. It was then that we began focusing our energies and finances on experiences rather than collecting more things. What a wonderful mind-shift this has been, and it has been much more fulfilling.
Also, Verghese's "The Covenant of Water" was my book of the year last year, and I read "Cutting for Stone" this year. He is a master at his craft. I have not read any of Robin Kimmerer's books yet, but I have several on my TBR.
Your book of the year…I actually think I knew that from some of your past writing. In person, he was a mesmerizing speaker—so wise and grounded. He talked about how the threads woven in that story were fragments from his families life when they lived in Ethiopia. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Such a terrific part of your journey, Kert. Thanks for sharing. I am a big fan of Robin, not so familiar with Verghese, and appreciate the link. Friend of mine was a speaker at the Chautauqua Campground in Chautauqua, New York for several seasons many years ago. Another, similar movement is Elderhostel from 1975 to 2010 after which it became Road Scholar.
There’s nothing like coming together for the purpose of serious intellectual engagement. It’s one reason why I worry about our current times.
Serious intellectual engagement and exchange is in short supply and your worry is well founded. When the average reading level of 54% of adults in the U.S. is 6th grade and below, you know there’s a problem with people being able to think for themselves and draw their own conclusions, make informed judgments and help solve problems.