“You do not become good by trying to be good,
but by finding the goodness that is already within you,
and allowing that goodness to emerge.”
~ Eckhart Tolle
Way back in 2009 I attended the Humanity Academy (I talked about it in a 2013 post). Every couple of years our fearless leader, Marietta Watts (far left), brings us together for continued discussions. Today was just such an event with around 40 graduates in attendance. We did some serious work, but we also laughed…a lot. I was snorting. In fact, everyone at our table was snorting at one time or another. Admittedly, and I think all the attendees would agree, we were the fun table (I know you find that hard to believe).
Two-thirds of our table went through HA together in 2009; Annie Bassoni, Di Black (above far right), Ella Muhovic (below), and myself. (Marie graduated in 2013.) I hadn’t seen Di and Ella since we graduated, but it didn’t make any difference. We picked up where we left off, although I had forgotten just how funny Di is. I’d also forgotten that she sounds oddly like Comedianne-turned-Tea-Partier Victoria Jackson (except Di’s actually funny). She and Annie had us in tears most of the day. A co-worker’s husband, Beau Steenken, a graduate of the most recent HA class (below with Ella), was a brave man. Not only did he sit with us, he fit right in. He was a real treat to get to know, too. He’s one of the girls now; a keeper. The Humanity Academy helped me grow as a person, and from other graduates I was given some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had. For many of us the Humanity Academy experience continues to enrich our lives at work, at home, and the world at large. We’ve got Marietta Watts to thank for that. The University of Kentucky is privileged to have her on the team, and we’re all better people because of her.
Shorty & Shirley
Oh my goo-ness what a bunch! Would loved to have been a fly listening to you all talking and laughing ? I would have probably split my tiny wings with laughter! Glad you had a good (end-of-the-week) Friday!