That they are always interesting to listen to and learn from.

I am healing faster than expected after having had major back surgery almost twelve weeks ago. These days I am beginning to envision the possibility, with time, of returning to doing some of the things that I was forced to abandon due to chronic back pain.
– Kevin

Love this question! Having opportunities to experience solitude, and to practice it frequently, frankly helps to keep me sane! In many ways I experience a measure of solidtude while writing or when using my camera on photography outings. Beach and trail walks, with occasional weekend retreats round out my personal needs for solitude. The rest of the time, I love being among people whether a few in number or a hundred.
– Kevin

I find joy in the simplicity of:
my morning cup of tea;
in the certainty of sunrises;
in my dog’s howling when the phone rings;
in the familiar tone of my wife’s voice;
in oatmeal;
in the ocean’s roar and the seagulls cry;
in a day lived well and the hope of tomorrow.
– Kevin

These days I now have more time to devote to others who may have unmet needs that I can help to address. Resources at my disposal are my ability to use my photography and writing for worthy causes that benefit people in some way. I am actually in what might be called the planning or development stage that utilizes these resources coupled in a spiritual context. Time will tell!
– Kevin

Honestly, That’s a goal I would not worry about because in my mind it turns the topic of being grateful and living a life of gratitude into some kind of a race for perfection. Instead, I would rather strive for being kind, honest, and considerate of other people as I move throughout my day and be fully present to all that unfolds hour by hour.
-Kevin

What leads me to a sense of wonder? Watching children grow and adapt into the world in which they are born.

By making sure that I have heard the root of the issue correctly and understanding who truly owns the problem, then sitting with it for a bit. After that, I try to remember to ask for spiritual guidance, then address the matter head on.
– Kevin

This is a perfect question for this moment at this time for me! Today is the first day of a week long conference of 700 to 800 Quakers in New England, And my role is to serve as their pastoral counselor for the entire week. As I approach this ministry for today and the days to come and if I do so with love, that should serve as my answer to today’s question.

This question actually speaks directly to the practice of my faith as a Quaker. For us, any social action undertaken ought to have come as a result of doing inner reflection and prayer, individually, and among a body of Friends (Quakers) in worship. From this practice a spiritual “leading” may rise, and when it does it provides the vision and stamina to stay the course and do the work.
– Kevin

If I had to lift up the corners of my mouth for a while I think that my fingers would get tired! Ha! But I get it!

Amen to that, Christina. Let’s hope that the violence in Charlottesville does not escalate.

Greetings, Jill, thanks for what you shared here. I too have heard that “divine no” from time to time and have learned the hard way that it’s best to heed that message as it comes from the Spirit! When it comes to spiritual leadings, the word “should” ought not to be a part of it!

My best to you.

12 weeks indeed, Deb! I’m not sure I even know what a bone stimulator is, Deb. I do use a back brace now and then, but less and less often these days too.

Thanks very much, Antoinette.

Oh yes, I pay attention to certain people who seem able to listen intently seemingly without effort. They have a certain of energy that seems different from most other people.

Thanks, Aine. Makes me realize I could spend hours thinking of the many ways where elements of human kindness in the face of everyday struggles of life intersect.