and a witness. Her teachings in the past 50 years are offered in numerous books, films, interviews and presentations. In May 2022, I visited Janet in her home and Kiva studio on Galiano Island, off the coast of Vancouver, B.C. We embarked on a journey of discovery, a collaborative process that was rich with mutual inspiration and learning, and which developed into a friendship. The result of our work together is the film: “LIGHT | Five Days with Janet Adler". It is a homage to the life and legacy of one of the great teachers of our time, who lived within the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest with her husband Philip. Place is also important: I lived in Seattle for many yea... posted on Sep 18 2023 (4,153 reads)

I indulged myself in the telling. It was almost like sitting with a psychiatrist. Aristotle was sympathetic but a little baffled. “When will you finally believe what a good person you are?” he asked. “The voices of the dead are hard to argue with,” I told him. “Has it ever occurred to you that you may be mis-hearing them?” he said. “Their views have changed by now. You need to listen differently. Maybe they are telling you to enjoy your life.”  Could it be? Sometimes I think so. Why the hell not? We talked about friendship and family. Who knows you best? Who sees your current self most clearly? Listen to your friends... posted on Sep 24 2023 (2,998 reads)

at me and gave the beautiful gift of contemplation, sadness, and peace - all in not-to-many words, and with what feels like a gentle and knowing smile from Jane. Enjoy! -- Desirae Brakhage (Jane's granddaughter) Lots of times I talk with him. Especially when he gets big and I can see the expression on his face. “Hi, Moon!” I say, so happy to see him always, “What’s up?” And I focus quickly on his expression and he tells me what’s coming along in my life. It seems like he likes me particularly, or he wouldn’t show sympathy like that. The subtlety and diversity of his expression amazes me. He achieves it with rock. . . light . . . air (humid... posted on Sep 27 2023 (3,127 reads)

bursting forth, robust and colorful. Show me those who are more tortoise than hare. The actress who gets her first starring role at forty. The writer who publishes his first novel at fifty. The entrepreneur who launches a business at sixty. The painter who opens a gallery at seventy. Recount the stories of those who bloom like the agave americana, slow and steady, maturing over decades until flowers ripen, releasing the rich, honeyed nectar it took a lifetime to create. *** TO MY SON ON THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Watching you walk into your classroom is like sending my heart out into the world without a ribcage. Ask questio... posted on Oct 2 2023 (5,185 reads)

or the attitude and belief that one should always maintain a positive outlook, uses ‘good vibes’ as a policing strategy. Some groups or individuals enforce strict codes of behavior and the suppression of certain emotions or expressions of vulnerability. It’s as if there are bouncers standing at the door of the psyche who only allow in the most attractive and best-dressed emotions.” I’ve heard from many of you who’ve encountered toxic positivity during life's most challenging moments. And it’s usually from well-meaning friends or loved ones who don’t realize the impact of their words. Luckily, many of us are learning to maintain our ... posted on Oct 8 2023 (3,640 reads)

more important. The mind sheds bodies in the way we shed clothes. We wear clothes until they get old and worn out, and we can’t wear them anymore, and then we just throw them away. There will come a time when you have to throw the body away. It may come sooner than you want, but it’s going to have to happen. But the shape of the mind is something you have to maintain regardless, because that will stick with you. That goes with you wherever you go. And so you want to be able to live life in a way where you’re talking to yourself and your breathing in a way that’s nourishing, in a way where the mind is in good shape and can live with itself.I’ve been to hospitals... posted on Apr 8 2024 (2,944 reads)

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results in a far more uncomfortable conversation than the one we’d been avoiding in the first place. It is a natural human inclination to seek harmony and avoid disrupting peace. However, it is essential to recognize that true harmony arises from understanding and clear communication, not from the absence of confrontation. Addressing problems promptly and with candor not only can prevent a boiling point moment, but it also strengthens our relationships and builds trust. Where in your life might there be lines that need drawing, or conversations that must be initiated? “Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.” – Ambrose ... posted on Apr 19 2024 (2,600 reads)