With hindsight being 20/20 - when you look back at all the things you didn't do because you were afraid --- which of those things would you do now?

On the one hand, fearfulness keeps us safe from all(!) the stupidly dangerous stuff; on the other, it stops us from exploring and discovering all the experiences that may be positively life-changing. And within that statement lays the paradox. The goal is to find the balance.  

I think part of the problem can be found in the trendiness of using fear as a motivator -  FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is one prime example.

The refusal to embrace change or try something new - while they might seem on the opposite end of FOMO is motivated by fear as well.

We, humans, are very good at making excuses for staying in situations or doing things (keeping up with the Joneses) that are not conducive to our well-being - physical, mental, or our future selves. And insisting that those around us remain stuck too - because - what if... fill in the blank with every negative outcome you can imagine.

Or - what if you discovered that by simply opening your mind, you would begin generating fresh, original, and innovative ideas and, in the process, find deep joy and satisfaction and help others find theirs.

Fear stops creativity in its tracks - whereas confidence cracks us wide open to imagine all the possibilities that life can be. I invite you to find your sweet spot within the paradox.

We are still assessing the feasibility of offering an after school program at the Canton Center. If you need after school care or know of someone who is looking - please complete the afternoon program interest form found here.

DRC's afternoon program is completely flexible. We offer drop in options and we charge less than any other after school program in the area.

DRC Summer Day Camp Program still has some spots available for all three weeks - 8/14, 8/21, & 8/28. Learn more here or register here.

... stupid, dense, or thick-headed - not by a long shot! I am so very sorry if that is the internalized story you have been telling yourself when you consider doing something particularly challenging but stop because you are triggered by traumatic memories of failure or ridicule.

The cultural standard of pathologizing, labeling, judging, and pointing out deficits and inadequacies has produced a large population of self-doubters who are deathly afraid of experimenting, getting creative, and trying something new - because they may be wrong or screw up or punished for simply stepping outside the box of tradition and conformity.  

Every single one of us holds deep inside a capacity for brilliance. None of us share the same talents, skills, challenges, or life experiences as anyone else in this whole wide world.

As I see it, the only way forward is to embrace a new paradigm that highlights each individual's positive characteristics, celebrates their innate abilities, interests, and intense curiosity, honors their struggles, and guides them to discover their very own hacks for overcoming obstacles to do the things they want to do.  

Join me in creating a reality where authenticity, uniqueness, and originality are the new standard of excellence. And where every child (person) is excited to try something new and challenging because they believe wholeheartedly (and fiercely) in themselves and their abilities. 

Several wisps of ideas have drifted into my consciousness at various moments this past week but only flitted through long enough for me to realize they were there - none of them landed long enough to settle in, get cozy, and inspire a post.

Over these past ten years, I have learned not to struggle and fight - to write something only to get words on a page or force all the creative sparks into an uncomfortable pattern when they are making it abundantly clear they desire a brief vacation.

This is my brain shouting, take a rest - and this time, I will listen.

Doing the work that needs to be done - not for profit or the glory - simply because you see the need for your particular talent or skill set and want to help however you can.

Sociologists would probably consider this utopia - a society where everyone works and plays together for the good of all - and where everyone is taken care of.  

There are places in the world where this concept exists, but I can only imagine it is most likely dying out. Native South Africans, as well as other African cultures, call it Ubuntu. And it is the antithesis of Capitalism. You see, you can't make excessive (stupid) amounts of money when folks are committed to sharing their skills and resources to help each other.  

This is why I am always super impressed and excited to work with people who see a problem or a niche to be filled and dive in to create a unique solution. These folks are incredibly passionate about doing the good work for the benefit of all. Not because they see a path to riches but because they genuinely care and want to help others who are also doing good work.

I recently met someone accomplishing just that, and it is inspiring to know that the fundamental desire to help is still alive and well.

Any of us can step up, fill a gap, create something, share our beautifully authentic gifts, and without a doubt, change the world - together! 

As an ongoing fundraiser, DRC will be holding monthly raffles - our last payout was $870.  Stay-tuned to learn how you can buy a chance to win.