Sounds that give you hope...

23 September 2017: "And I gotta say, you hear these recordings and you can't help but think, I think we're gonna be all right." --Jad, the host of Radiolab, talking about listening to people's reactions to August's eclipse.

Catching up on my podcasts this morning, I finally listened to this episode of Radiolab, which opens with listener-submitted audio of folks watching the eclipse. Just as I did on the day itself and its immediate aftermath, I found myself getting choked up just listening to these clips. They are so lovely, awe-struck, innocent, hopeful, and fun--people expressing pure and positive emotions together. What a gift this experience was, even for those of us who couldn't see the whole thing.

The whole episode is uplifting, including the re-run of this wonderful segment about Voyager I and II and the golden record on board. Give it a listen.

Hector Black

9 March 2014: Yesterday, while tackling some spring cleaning, I heard Hector Black's amazing story on The Moth's podcast. Here's the short version: Black tells the story of forgiving the man who killed his daughter. But that summary does no justice to hearing his voice and his moving words. I found myself stopped in my tracks, amazed by this man's beautiful soul. I had heard parts of this story before, on the Radiolab podcast last fall, but it is still just as powerful. People like Hector Black remind of us the amazing potential for goodness and forgiveness in the world, and that's something for which to be quite grateful.

A cold walk...

23 January 2014: Even as I was typing this post earlier today, I kind of anticipated it would lead to today's gratitude posting. After being stuck inside for the past couple of days, I was itching for fresh air, exercise, and just a bit of freedom. So the walk to and from my office today are the things I am thankful for today.

It was cold: walking home the temperature was 16 degrees, with a windchill of 5 below, the kind of cold that hurts a bit. But it was also invigorating. And the scenery was beautiful. Plus the walk gave me time to listen to most of the latest episode of Radiolab. Not bad at all.

(I still wouldn't mind spring coming a bit early, though!)