"I needed to take what was in my control, which wasn't the genetics, but it was the situations and find a couple of things," he says. "There were ways of interrogating myself about whatever I was in, better ways of seeking a path forward if the way seemed impassable" He's been able to get off medication that has kept him on his feet for most of his life. 'It became increasingly clear as I got deeper into my 60s and then into my 70s that the old body, and even the old mind wasn't going to be up for that'
So, what might happen if you let go of what you thought your life would or should be, and created the space to let it show you what it truly yearns to be? Then, followed that thread. That’s been the experience of today’s guest, Parker Palmer.
Graduating Berkley with a Ph.D. in ‘69, he thought he’d head into the world of academia but instead found himself heading to DC to become an activist and community organizer for 5 years. But, something else began to call him, and he took what he thought would be a short sojourn to a Quaker learning community that turned into 11 years. Over time, a new sense of calling emerged as a writer, speaker and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change.
In this deeply-moving conversation, Parker shares this journey and many of insights, as well as how three seasons of profound depression have shaped his experience of life, and lens on people, compassion, belonging and beyond.
You can find Parker at: Website | Facebook
If you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Mark Nepo about following your own path.
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