"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." - Viktor Frankl Life is full of stimuli, things we didn't ask for and often can't control. But what separates a reactive life from an intentional life is the space between what happens to us, and how we choose to respond. That space is where our character is built.

Today we discussed how staying young doesn't have anything to do with our hair color or wrinkles. Have you met someone in their 70's or 80's who is full of energy and loves being alive? It's not because they are young looking, but more because they are interested. Asking questions, laughing, trying new things...just staying curious about the world and others around them. Answer this question: "I've always wondered what it would be like to....?" And then answer: "What steals our curiosity?" Group members said, be curious by not being attached to the outcome but just doing the thing. Holding an atmosphere of curiosity. (Making space for it) Layers of joy (Childhood vs Adult.....aka Disneyland vs Peaceful cup of morning coffee) Do we need permission? Do we give ourselves permission? We stay young when we still have things to discover. As long as we are still curious, life has something to teach us. Have a good week, my friends.

Sorry guys. I'm super sick and not going to be much of a host. You're welcome to use the space for your own discussion if you like, I just won't be on. See you all next week for Wildfire chat.

Today's Fireside topic was: Observe, Don't Absorb. As we talked about what that means in real life, one of us described it simply as "staying in my lane." Sometimes the challenge isn't knowing where the boundary is, it's having the courage to honor it. When we remind ourselves to stay in our lane, we're less likely to take responsibility for things that were never ours to carry, and more able to step back and simply observe what is happening around us. Several of us acknowledged that observing without absorbing is easier said than done. We care deeply about people. We see their struggles, their mistakes, their self-sabotage, and naturally want to help. But often, that desire to help pulls us right back into patterns of overextending ourselves, trying to fix problems that aren't ours to solve. One member shared that she'd love to hear from people who seem naturally gifted at not absorbing the emotions and choices of others. What wisdom do they have? How do they remain compassionate without becoming responsible? We also discussed the reality that when we begin setting healthier boundaries, the people around us may not immediately celebrate the change. In fact, they may push back. When others are accustomed to our rescuing, fixing, or carrying, stepping out of that role can feel uncomfortable for everyone involved. That's why holding boundaries isn't about controlling others but more it's about protecting our own well-being. The biggest takeaway from the conversation is that observing doesn't mean we stop caring. It means we trust others enough to let them walk their own path, make their own choices, and learn their own lessons. We can offer support without carrying the weight. We can care without absorbing. As one of us put it, "Who knew that protecting your peace would not be peaceful." Sometimes the most loving thing we can do both for ourselves and for others, it just to "stay in our lane." Great conversation everyone, thanks to all that joined! If YOU are interested in coming to the Fireside chat, we have them at 8am PST on Tuesdays. The topics are in the calendar. Hope to see everyone there!

Today we talked about being introverted, extroverted, or an ambivert. Are we introverted, or just overstimulated? What's the difference between solitude and isolation? Meaningful connections vs social exhaustion Why some conversations energize us while others drain us How our personality changes with safety, age, burnout, or life stage. I had to really examine personally, what I enjoyed. Which interactions drain my energy, even if I really like the people I'm with. Who are the people in my life that I don't have to perform for. While there is no "wrong" way to be, it is interesting how our lives have moved or situations that have changed the way our energy moves. Widen your lens. Maybe the goal isn't to be come more social or more private, but to become more honest with yourself about what restores you. I'm certainly am ambivert - all the way. How about you?