The featured Highlight of the Week from past dates.
4/18 ~ When Breath Becomes Air
by Paul Kalanithi
When Breath Becomes Air, the incredible autobiography written by neurosurgeon and scientist, writer, literary connoisseur, and family man Paul Kalanithi. A master work that pits life against death in the realm of the educated mind and failing body. I cannot recommend this book enough!
12/31 ~ Starting Anew-ish
Alright, I wont mince words with you: 2017 sucked. Bad.
And for all I care it can go jump in the proverbial lake. Clear off and join all the other past years that left us tired, broke, and frustrated.
But hey, that’s just me. What do I know, maybe your 2017 was great. I am overjoyed for your success and happiness. Go you!
In the fairness that is due all things, I would encourage everyone to at least take a little bit of time and evaluate the good and bad that has happened in your life this year. Mull it over and try to learn a thing or two about who you were these past twelve months. Make a list if you can, jotting down key elements that made this year brighter or darker. Think about decisive measures you can take to keep enjoying those moments of light in these next twelve months, while also eliminating the repeatable mistakes that previously made your life darker.
Is stupid simple and keeps the mind out the muck and ruts of a stagnate attitude. Again, I will encourage you to not get too lost in the crazy distractions that naturally arise during the holidays. The problems of this year will follow us into the next if we are not careful.
Otherwise, have a happy new year everyone!
12/24 ~ Christmas
Merry Christmas everyone! This is a time in which a lot of people set aside their focus on their own petty problems and voluntarily be distracted by fancy lights, cheery music, and gilded food. However as we gather together with those we love this holiday season, make sure to remember the reality of the world around us. I would encourage each and every one of us to use this season as a lens. Look into the hearts of those you meet. I challenge you to share a genuine joy of Spirit. Don’t buy into the facade of too much gold and glamour. Make this holiday season special for someone else. That is the true spirit of Christmas.
12/17 ~ The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist is an enchanting novel by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho. Written over 25 years ago, the reader follows the timeless pilgrimage of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd-turned-treasure hunter and his journey from eager youngster to experienced world traveler. Along the way he learns the value of a purposeful life and it’s adventurous ups and downs, sharing all the wonderful nuggets of wisdom that the harsh world around him teaches.
Now, my impressions:
Over the past couple of months, I have been searching for a book to capture my attention, holding such a tight grip on my emotions that I forget I am not physically in the story myself. It’s a personal thrill of mine when I discover that story and have it hook me so firmly. Unfortunately, I find it increasingly difficult to unearth stories of this caliber. It could be my own lack of effort, admittedly, but as time marches on I tend to get more and more agitated without that book to keep me anchored. In a sense, that what the entire Highlight of the Week segment is about.
The Alchemist embodies everything I love about fictional literature: likable protagonist, enticing adventure, and meaningful plot. The heart of this story really jumps out at you through the deep wisdom each character imparts to the young Santiago during his quest.
I would highly recommend the books to anyone who is looking for a breath of fresh air in their reading.
UWC 