Greetings!

"It was a splendid summer morning and it seemed as if nothing could go wrong."
~ John Cheever

When thinking about the month of July, I imagine being deep into summer and summer fun. I also think about long days and maybe swimming in oceans and lakes. For those who are involved in the school system, it might mean the end of the school year. This might also coincide with changing professions or life passions. If this resonates with you, consider reading my article "Are Your Passions Changing?"

On another note, July 18th is World Listening Day. We don't necessarily need a reason to celebrate this day, but it should be a reminder to us of the importance of listening to ourselves and to others. Please check out my article in Psychology Today called, "The Art of Listening," for more information on how to be a better listener.

Sometimes we need a boost for our spirits, and poetry can always offer us something in this arena. I have a few favorite poets, one of which is Rumi. Please read, "The Psychology of Rumi," for why I feel he is such an important read for all of us at this time in our lives.
  • Write a letter to someone who is a great listener.

  • Write about your favorite summer holiday.

  • Write about all your passions.

  • Write about passions you have yet to explore.
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"The Importance of Storytelling as We Age." (article) Pure Slush: Older Theme. May 2024.

"Are Your Passions Changing?" (article) Sixty and Me. June 2, 2024.

"Are Your Passions Changing?" (article) Medium. June 6, 2024.

"The Psychology of Rumi's Poetry." (article) Psychology Today. June 12, 2024.

"The Art of Remembering How We Have Become Who We Are." (article) The Good Men Project. June 13, 2024.

"Are Your Passions Changing?" (article) The Good Men Project. June 20, 2024.

"Soho at 4 A.M.," and “Bubbly Truths." (poems) Anomaly Poetry: Rituals Theme. June 21, 2024.

"Sweet Wonder." (poem) Ibbetson Street. Issue #55. June 22, 2024.

"The Art of Listening." (article) Psychology Today. June 26, 2024.
July 19, 2024
5:30 p.m.
"Connecting with Your Ancestors: A Writing Workshop"
Clementine Carter Wines
388 Bell Street
Los Alamos, CA
(805) 344-1900

*****
August / September 2024
Mystic Journey Bookstore
Santa Monica, CA
Writing Workshop Series
To be decided / check my website for details

*****

August 31, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
"Crafting Your Memoir"
Sacred Space
2594 Lillie Ave
Summerland, CA 93067
Register here

*****

NOTE: If you're interested in an intimate writing workshop of 10 people, in LA or Santa Barbara, please email me at diana@dianaraab.com


Somehow: Thoughts on Love by Anne Lamott (nonfiction)

This is Lamott's latest book, released in April 2024. She poignantly discusses the importance of love in all realms of our lives and how some people carry this wonderful superpower—although she claims that her own superpower is charm. Lamott has so many words of wisdom in this book that I've dog-eared. For example, the idea that elders teach us how to be patient, while children teach us how to be young. I never thought of it this way, but it's so very true!

She writes about something I often advocate for: humans are meant to be connected, and we cannot spread love unless we connect. "Eighty percent of any meeting or gathering might be stupid and beneath you, but the other twenty percent will save you: it will open up your brain and expand your life and give you connection, a place in the family of [hu]man. And this is salvation." (p. 121)

This is a quick and inspiring read I highly recommended, especially if you've been following Lamott since her classic, Bird By Bird. (1994)
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