Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Vipassana Retreat - Preparing to leave

Today marks the day that I will travel to the NW Vipassana Center for my 10 day Vipassana Retreat.

To learn Vipassana one must do the 10 day retreat while observing the noble silence. "Vipassana will eradicate all suffering, it is a method of mental purification which allows one to face life's tensions and problems in a calm, balanced way. It is an art of living that one can use to make positive contributions to society. In fact, Vipassana eliminates the three causes of all unhappiness: craving, aversion and ignorance."

The courses survive by Donation. "Neither the teachers nor the organizers receive any kind of payment for their service. Thus, the spread of Vipassana is carried out with purity of purpose, free from any commercialism."

I am both excited and scared. I look forward to sharing my thoughts after the experience with you all.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

So Seattle


I always tell people that Seattle is the type of place that when you stop to ask for directions you will be told all the great places to eat along the way. There is another character trait that runs rampant in this city as well - chillin. Here is a photo that aptly describes this trait...seriously either lane? that is SO Seattle.

Friday, May 2, 2008

Leaving Hornall Anderson


Today is my last day at Hornall Anderson, a magnificent design firm here in Seattle. I've been with the team for nearly 3 years...it's been fun, exciting, emotional, challenging and overwhelmingly rewarding.

The truth is that I am a bigger, better person because of the people. I've never left a workplace that I am so personally and emotionally invested in...I am sad, yet excited for what's NEXT. Which would not be happening without the encouragement and support of my family, friends and colleagues I'd simply not be able to make this "leap of faith" and chase after my dreams.

I'll leave you with my favorite poem by the late, great Langston Hughes.

Hold Fast to Dreams
For if Dreams Die
Life is a Broken Winged Bird who cannot Fly

Hold Fast to Dreams
For if Dreams Go
Life is a Barren Field Frozen with Snow

much love to all of you at Hornall Anderson.
d