Susanna Shetley

We are living in tumultuous times, and I’m writing to say I am sorry. I know I’ve done and said things that hurt you, that made you furrow your brow in confusion, wondering if you ever knew me at all. I know you’ve rolled your eyes at something politically-slanted I’ve posted on social media. To be honest, your words and posts have conjured the same reactions for me.

I f you’ve never been exposed to Daoism (commonly known as Taoism), now may be the time to intentionally engage with this ancient philosophy. The way that Lao Tzu’s teachings serve as an antidote to today’s political landscape feels not only prophetic but encouraging. To realize that the same dark woes and authoritarian shenanigans were happening thousands of years ago offers a unique type of comfort.

I was once a real sucker for the New Year’s Eve hoopla — toasting with champagne and making grandiose resolutions, but the past couple of December 31sts, I’ve felt a little lackluster in terms of the anticipatory energy that typically surrounds the beginning of another year.

I magine walking into an ice cream shop excited about the many flavor selections, only to be greeted by a clerk who says, “From now on, all we have is vanilla.” Befuddled, you respond with, “Oh… OK, then I guess I’ll have vanilla, but let’s add some sprinkles and chocolate chips.” Then the clerk says, “No toppings. Just plain ol’ vanilla. That will be the only option from now on.”

O ne can learn a lot by shopping at Trader Joe’s, and I’m not talking about the difference between tofu and tempeh or which seasonal items are in stock. I’m referring to life skills and reminders of humanity that shine brightly at this gem of an establishment. Though I live in Haywood County, I’m in Asheville a couple of times each week and on at least one of those occasions, I visit Trader Joe’s.

There is a Cherokee legend where an elder tells his grandson a story about two wolves. It goes something like this.

My older son is an elite distance runner and has been invited to race at meets all over the country this spring. Additionally, we’ve been going on recruiting visits that span both coasts. All that to say, I’ve been on a lot of planes lately. During the most recent plane ride, I was standing in […]