A Little Inspiration for You

Two recommendations that can kick start you in a whole new way!

We’re in a time again, where we need really good recommendations about what to watch and what to read. I have two recommendations for you. If I could suggest a stronger word than “recommendation,” I would—perhaps requirement might work to ask you to watch and read this. Both just feel that important to me at this particular time.

We all need help to inspire us; encourage us and sustain us. These two resources will do just that.

Photo by Mae Mu on Unsplash

First, watch “Noodles” a Chef Table episode about a chef who has a passion to make pasta. Noodles, is his story but it’s also your story—my story. It’s the story of the search for true vocation and true self. This is really a documentary on vocation, calling, work, meaning, satisfaction in the work zone and so, so much more. It’s the convergence of Parker Palmer’s (Let Your Life Speak) work, David Whyte’s work (Crossing the Unknown Sea) and Thomas Merton’s work (everything he has written) as well as some of my own (See my chapter in Soul Custody on “Soul Vocation”. We watched it last night and I was mesmerized by the story but also by the depth of the narrative that gets kicked up in us all about: “Can I really do work that is both meaningful and rewarding.”

If there’s interest, I’d like to do a Zoom meeting where we could discuss this and all that gets stirred up inside of us. If you’re interested, leave a comment. This is a show that would be awesome for HR managers, Spiritual directors, pastors, business folks, teachers, doctors and plumbers—-well, just about everybody to watch.

Watch the Trailer for Noodles…

It’s on Netflix platform.

2. Get the book, The Great Search by John Phillip Newell.

This book has helped Gwen and I navigate these uncertain and muddy times in remarkable and specific ways. In addition to the book, I want to invite you to join me in a one day retreat on Zoom with the author, John Phillip Newell. Here’s the link for you to consider and register for the one day retreat with Newell. I’ll be on the Zoom for the day and hoping to see many of you there with me. You do not want to miss this. Newell’s work offers me such hope, encouragement, comfort and information. I hope you’ll learn and relearn and unlearn with me on the journey home!

If you do plan on being in the one day on October 26 on Zoom, let me know so I can be on the lookout and connect in that way as well.

Have a great time watching, re-thinking and re-setting your life!

Every blessing! Pass this specific Substack around and see if you might do a “watch party” or book club using these two recommendations.

Steve