I had that kind of conversation with a good friend. It was amazing how we each interpreted events and snippets we'd heard from various sources differently, radically differently. But because we're good friends, we listened to each other, asked questions, challenged each other, and agreed to disagree on some things.

The rush of getting things done and going for a goal is addictive. Using a targeted approach and my perseverance, I lost weight, accomplished home projects, and went to night school, all to accomplish my goals and get ahead.

This is not an idyllic place; it is a powerful space where the self gets out of the way of the magic.

I was told, no doubt by a disapproving friend, that my grandfather's first wife was small in stature but mighty in spirit. After all, she gave birth to and raised seven children, who all turned out to be hardworking, responsible citizens. I was told that after raising her children, she took classes, probably at the University of B.C. I'm sure she was in her golden brain years then.