Why was this so powerful

And Mary Oliver’s coming for you / Issue 1,123

Oh, hi friends!

The sun hasn’t emerged in days in New York, but I had a lovely and relaxed birthday (pancakes and mediterranean food and a special birthday video message from Fiona the famous hippo, courtesy of Colin).

And here on a Monday I’m reminded, yet again, of how our interpretation of moments color how we feel about them. 

The text that arrives and annoys you, the big news you’re waiting on, the weather that threatens to ruin your plans. 

They’re simply events; they don’t tell you how to feel. You tell yourself how to feel. 

I did a podcast interview with my friend Steve this morning and I asked him how he judges whether he’s had a successful day. And he didn’t hesitate: He said he already knew this morning that it was going to be a successful day. And that he would just do what he needed to do. 

Why was this so powerful? 

Another reminder that feelings lead to action. You know it’s going to be good—so then it becomes good. 

Believe first. Then act.

It is a serious thing 
just to be alive
on this fresh morning 
in the broken world.

From “Invitation” by Mary Oliver, suggest reading the full poem.

Thanks to Caroline Linton for sharing!

Do You Know Someone Who…?

Bringing back this little feature since this is a busy season!

If you're looking for help with a project (in the form of a collaborator, advice, etc), or you're looking for a job or internship (or something else), please tell me a little bit about what you're seeking—and be as specific as you can. 

Some example questions:

• Do you know someone who teaches music lessons in the New York area?

• Do you know someone who works in marketing at Nike in Portland?

• Do you know someone who can copy edit my novel-in-progress?

Let's see if we might be able to make some connections and move forward together! 

Drop in your ask in the Google Form or leave it in the comments below and I’ll feature it in an upcoming newsletter.