During my recent visit to the Modern Elder Academy in Santa Fe, New Mexico, our cohort discussed the Exploratorium®, which is “a public learning laboratory where you can explore the world through science, art, and human perception.” Our continuing explorations led me to select “exploring” as my word for the year. My intention for the year is to continue exploring the world of conscious leadership, conscious living, and conscious aging through research, writing, and conversations that matter.

Connecting was my word for the past year and I am grateful for the connections that emerged, strengthened, and flourished throughout the year. My intention, to meet people in person wherever possible, has resulted in wonderful relationships that have often built on long term virtual connections. To my connections who supported my connecting intention, thank you! I am grateful for past, present, and future connections. My intention is to continue the focus on connecting, in person and online, during the coming year.  

Exploring the world through science, art, and human perception is like viewing reality through a prism, each facet revealing something different. So says, my trusty Copilot. Patterns in our fields of interest can be revealed through social sciences research. Art in its many forms invites us to translate those patterns and our own experiences into color, sound, and story. Weaving the science and art together provides the opportunity to view the world through the unique lens of our senses, emotions, and imagination. This year, exploring the world independently and in collaboration with others may reveal new directions for research, writing, and the convening of conversation circles in person and online.

If any of my reflections or my word-for-the-year have sparked ideas for connection and collaboration, please connect and let’s start a conversation.  

And in the words of one of my favorite teachers, Michael Neill, have fun, learn heaps, and happy exploring!