This is my take on a resolution we will be voting on at our Annual Conference.

I am not sure if it has an extended shelf life. I might bring it down after it serves its purpose.

This is simply an attempt to explain, in more time than I would have on Thursday, why I find a particular resolution problematic. The resolution is HERE.

In this episode of Mindful Leader, host Dennis Shaw explores the human tendency towards self-centeredness through the lens of David Foster Wallace's famous "This is Water" commencement speech.

Drawing on Wallace's metaphor of two fish unaware they're swimming in water, Dennis discusses our default human setting: seeing ourselves as the absolute center of the universe. The podcast challenges listeners to become aware of this innate perspective and intentionally choose to see beyond our own immediate experience.

Dennis weaves together insights from theologians like Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Richard Rohr to illustrate how personal transformation requires "unlearning" our ego-driven perspectives. Mirroring Wallace, Dennis emphasizes that we have a daily choice: remain trapped in our self-centered default mode or actively cultivate empathy, connection, and a broader understanding of our interconnectedness. Using examples ranging from marathon training to global perspectives, Dennis argues that mindfulness is about recognizing we are active participants in life, not just passive recipients replying on our default, self-absorbed, hard-wired default settings.

The podcast concludes with a practical challenge: as you go about your daily routine, ask yourself what choices you're making in mundane moments. Are you challenging your default settings? Are you choosing to be "light" and "salt" in the world? The message is hopeful, suggesting that by becoming aware of our natural self-centeredness, we can choose to see the "vast ocean of possibilities" that exists beyond our immediate perception.

Dennis email is HERE.

"This is Water" -- 2005 Kenyon College Commencement Speech.

Join Dennis Shaw, host of Mindful Leader, as he engages in a compelling conversation with clergy leader Michael Smith of the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church.

In this episode, they explore the critical themes of Soul Care and self-care for clergy and lay leaders within the church. Dennis and Michael share their personal experiences and insights into finding harmony between vocational responsibilities, personal life, and spiritual well-being.

The discussion highlights the challenges clergy face in balancing their roles as leaders, parents, spouses, and individuals. They emphasize the importance of not only managing church growth and leadership but also nurturing one's own soul and identity beyond the clergy role. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, the episode offers a roadmap for clergy to prioritize their well-being while effectively serving their congregations.

For anyone involved in church leadership or seeking inspiration to maintain a healthy balance in life, this conversation provides valuable perspectives on achieving both personal fulfillment and professional effectiveness.

A Transcript is HERE. Expires in April.

I owe you a link to David Foster Wallace: This is Water.

Dennis email is HERE.