On Being with Krista Tippett

The beloved Joanna Macy, a Buddhist teacher and ecological philosopher, shares her deep wisdom alongside Anita Barrows, psychologist and fellow Rilke translator. They reflect on Rainer Maria Rilke's insights into love, creativity, and navigating life's uncertainties. Their conversation reveals the transformative power of solitude in a post-pandemic world and emphasizes interconnectedness amid climate change. They celebrate the interplay of beauty and grief, paying tribute to Macy's legacy and the vital role of love and courage in our ever-changing lives.

Explore the profound connection between joy and resilience through the eyes of a community gardener. Ross Gay shares insights on actively seeking and nurturing delight in everyday moments. He emphasizes the power of small acts of kindness and uplifting words, showcasing how they contribute to a more just and hopeful world. The discussion illuminates the importance of appreciating life's ordinary pleasures, shifting focus from challenges to unearthing moments of happiness and connection.

Joy Harjo shares her profound connection to time and heritage, emphasizing the resilience of her community. She introduces the concept of the '200-Year Present,' inviting listeners to reflect on their past and future relationships. The discussion intertwines music and personal history, highlighting how art contributes to hope and justice. Harjo underscores the importance of nurturing future generations and our collective responsibility, all while embracing the nonlinear nature of time and existence. It's a captivating journey through memory and interconnectedness.

Explore the wild love for the Earth and the fierce hope that emerges from pain and grief. Embrace the transformative power of mourning as a way to deepen your connection to the world and its challenges. Discover how acknowledging grief can unleash intelligence and resilience, turning despair into love. Reflect on the intersections of hope and reality, and learn how sitting with grief can lead to profound insights and a sustained capacity to care for the world around us.

Exploring the transformative power of language, the conversation delves into how words can both connect and divide us. A renowned poet shares insights on the violence often embedded in our language and how altering our vocabulary can reshape our realities. There's a compelling call to redefine expressions of hope, urging listeners to recognize the metaphors of despair that infiltrate our daily lives. The discussion inspires a mindfulness about the language we use, emphasizing its vital role in crafting a more hopeful future.

The podcast explores the transformative power of writing as a companion to hope. Naomi Shihab Nye shares how journaling can clarify emotions and foster personal growth. The discussion delves into the journey toward one's better self, influenced by childhood experiences and guidance. Listeners are encouraged to engage in self-reflection through writing, using it as a tool for healing and self-discovery. The practice of holding onto inspiring words is highlighted as a way to navigate daily challenges.

Walter Brueggemann, a revered Christian scholar and author, reflects on the challenges of contemporary faith in this profound conversation. He emphasizes the urgent need to confront a world that feels increasingly unstable, reminiscent of the biblical prophets' calls to truth and hope. Brueggemann discusses the significance of language in shaping cultural identity, the depths of lament, and the transformative power of mercy. He also unpacks the role of preachers in addressing societal tensions, advocating for authentic communication in times of upheaval.

adrienne maree brown explores the power of imagination as a tool for hope and transformation. She delves into how radical imagination can shape the future, connecting our present with ancestral struggles. Historical insights, like those from divided Berlin, demonstrate the impact of a constrained outlook on social change. The discussion emphasizes small actions and creative chaos as essential for embracing emergence and fostering interconnectedness. It's a deep dive into how we can navigate complexities and aim for a hopeful future.

Discover the dynamic interplay between despair and hope, as the notion of 'muscular hope' is introduced, emphasizing community and self-reflection. Personal stories invite listeners to explore their own definitions of hope, revealing its fierce yet joyful essence. Engaging journaling prompts inspire introspection, encouraging individuals to confront their struggles while fostering a stronger connection to the transformative power of hope in challenging times.

In this enlightening discussion, Roberta Bondi, a Professor Emeritus of Church History at Emory University, shares her extensive knowledge of prayer and early Christian spirituality. She reflects on the teachings of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, emphasizing the importance of humility and presence. Bondi addresses the challenges many face in establishing a prayer practice, advocating for a gentle, engaging approach. She also uses the biblical metaphor of Jacob wrestling with an angel to illustrate how struggle in prayer can lead to profound spiritual growth.