Awe & Silence

May 17th, 2010 Posted in Blog

This is a sappy story about my vacation and my understanding of the significance of silence. With a home movie too!

I have been preaching, ok I’ll tone that down to lecturing, on the benefits of silence while presenting.

It is all right to stop and allow a good few seconds of silence:

When you feel an um coming
When impact is needed
When you need to take a restorative deep breath

I’ve just returned from Southern Utah, driving home through Monument National Park, and the Sierra Nevadas.


Yes, it is a little shaky. I’m new to recording and loving my new Flip camera.

My driving partner in crime will attest to my awe at the sheer magnificence of red rocks, towering precipices, and gushing or meandering waterways.

They made me quiet. They made me introspective.

I realized that it is all right to be present, in the moment. And I deeply understood what I communicate to my clients. It is ok to stand in front of your audience and allow them to appreciate you and for you to appreciate them.

In a few seconds of silence.


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2010 ~ Treat it Like a New Baby

January 2nd, 2010 Posted in Blog

When I finally – and I do mean finally and won’t go into gory details – brought my son home he scared me. I was a new mom with no baby experience. He was a gift, an exquisite one. He had the correct number of fingers and toes, everything seemed in tact. But he cried and cried. Was I caring for him as he required? Fed. Yes. Dry. Yes. As he cried, I became more upset, and he cried louder and became still more upset. As did I.

What was was creating his discontent? Well, it was me. And my wise husband easily demonstrated my failings. My husband – in his ever relaxed and confident manner – fell asleep on the couch with the new babe on his chest, who was soon fast asleep too.

I learned from my husband and son, hold precious things dearly but do not be afraid of them. Don’t treat your special things as though they will break or as if you don’t deserve them.

My wish for you is to appreciate the gift of 2010 and enjoy every minute, hour and day. Don’t be afraid of of the what ifs or maybes. Let me know what you have made happen and how you have tackled 2010…

Photo credit — http://bit.ly/4ZwkOh


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