Serendipity

. . .  is one of my all time favorite words, because it means that good and favorable events can happen, with no previous notice or announcement, at any time; new people will enter my life to share their talents, resources, and pure awesomeness, and, I can offer the same for others. Serendipity encompasses all that I hold dear: simplicity, kindness, magic, and wonder.
 
Some would argue that these chance encounters or happenings are fate, therefore not random, but predetermined. I choose to believe that the Universe offers us these delightful surprises every once in a while--- just because. I also trust that we can determine much of what seems arbitrary or happenstance with the general attitude, demeanor, and energy we present to the world.
 
Three years ago, this past week, I chose to leave my job of ten years. Which, to be brutally honest, was never just a job, it was an integral part of my life.
 
After leaving that position, the ensuing six months were suffused with tears of grief, and, yes, anger. I firmly believe, nonetheless, that those months of pain and introspection were the cleansing catalyst that allowed me to eventually be capable of exploring all the possibilities life had to offer.
 
I learned that sorrows, hurts, challenges, and suffering are all inevitable consequences of being alive. When I can have a positive, forgiving, and objective view of the world, however, life will provide the serendipitous moments that bring joy, gratitude, awe, and a new understanding of what it means to be fully awake and vital.
 
​

---

DRC NEWS
 
This past week, DRC hosted Jon, an intern at North Star and Lighthouse Holyoke - two of our sister organizations.  Jon spent most of his time introducing the DRC crew (students and staff) to KHAN Academy, an amazing resource, developed by MIT and their partners, with math and science lessons and tutorials as well as a multitude of other subjects and themes. 
 
André and I met Jon when we visited North Star.  He spends every Friday there facilitating classes and one-on-one tutorials.  When he learned we were from Canton, he told us that he had graduated from Clarkson in 2014. Jon decided to travel back up to the NoCo to spend time with us and visit friends at Clarkson, while Lighthouse was on break.  Yes, just a bit of serendipity in action.  Thank you Jon for all of your help, wisdom, and advice.  You are welcome at Deep Root Center anytime!
 
DRC Apprenticeship
 
Deep Root Center is looking for an apprentice for the coming academic year.  This person will have the opportunity to learn how a non-coercive, non-compulsory learning environment supports and encourages youth to take charge of their education and life to become self-directed, independent learners.  The apprentice will be deeply involved in daily operations at DRC including: facilitating classes, one-on-one tutorials, and mentoring our student members.  A complete apprenticeship description will be available soon, however, if you or someone you know is interested, please get in touch for more detailed information.