Mark Nepo: Navigating Storms of the Human Experience (Episode 247)

Key Takeaways: [4:17] Mark talks about the experience of almost dying from a rare form of lymphoma when he was in his 30s, and how it was the introduction to facing the unavoidable work of the friction that comes with life. [5:32] We must face what is done to us, but we are more than what has been done to us. [5:41] Mark talks about how the pandemic showed our generation it’s time to learn to choose love over fear, and compassion over self-interest. [11:20] One of the first “faults” goes back to the Industrial Revolution, where this is the first time in history that where we live and work is separated. [17:16] Reality TV is our present-day virtual Colosseum. [27:23] Often spiritually, the safest place is in the center. [28:09] Every one of us has a daily and perennial choice between love and fear. But there’s a difference between letting fear move through you and obeying it. [34:38] Through solitude, we restore our direct connection to the universe, and through relationships, we restore the wonder of being human and compassion and kindness. [37:11] The bad news is we’re always falling. The good news is there’s no bottom. [47:56] Mark’s challenge and invasion: inhabit life fully by being as open-hearted and as loving as possible. This will require courage, strength, and kindness. Mentioned in This Episode: Productive Flourishing Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done, by Charlie Gilkey The Academy Momentum App Mark Nepo Surviving Storms: Finding the Strength To Meet Adversity, by Mark Nepo The Social Dilemma Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day, by Jay Seti No Mud, No Lotus: The Art of Transforming Suffering, by Thich Nhat Hanh This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.productiveflourishing.com/subscribe