Wk 3 Response to Angelo Pardo's Blog Post

Angelo's Original Post:

One of the biggest takeaways from reading this particular book is that I have never seen myself so enthusiastic about diving in. Let me reiterate that the “Art of Possibility” by Benjamin and Rosamund Zander is one of those books that you cannot put down; it is a brilliantly refreshing account of the lessons and stories about enjoying life to the fullest. I really like the format of the writing so far because when I read I don’t see words, rather I see an ocean of pictures before me–every chapter is filled with paintings of concepts that I truly understand and appreciate, because the lessons are so applicable in my own life.

Allow me to give a brief summary of each chapter (5-8). Chapter 5 is about stepping down and letting others lead. I have heard it said a lot from teachers that it a humbling and genuine experience when the students teach the teachers. Chapter 6 teaches us to lighten up using Rule Number 6 (hilarious. Chapter 7 is about being present to the way things are so that we can have clarity on the next step we should take. Chapter 8 is about giving way to passion, that is to let go of restraint and participate fully. Benjamin Zander, in one of his anecdotes, referred to this as going “Beyond the F*ck It”. I also learned from these chapters the difference between the calculating vs. central self. I am now striving to be more in contact with the latter because I can see how much good it does for me and for everyone else around me.

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

My Response:

Angelo, I am so glad that you are finding "The Art of Possibility" to be such an inspirational book.  I know that this year has been filled with a great deal of trials and tribulations in your life; and there have been times when you hit a spiritual low.  Seeing how your spirit has been lifted by this month's readings is really nice.  In fact, your life this year (and probably everyone's lives now that I think about it) could be turned into stories within the Zander's book.  Remember how stressed you were at times, and how there were points along this EMDT journey where you almost left the program. We all had such thoughts and feelings at some point(s) in the past year.  Now compare those down times with the exuberance you feel when reading the pages of this book.  You (we) are living proof of the truth the Zander's have laid down on paper for anyone to read and explore.

Stay happy my friend.  It's all an illusion anyways.

Steve L.