I agree with James, this is a wonderful, succinct, and rich piece of self-expression. So much in it that I personally resonate with. The trinity you name are without question what pull me to the activity of writing. In the "expression" category I put "authenticity" - which helps me focus on the type of expression that feeds me (and I think feeds others). I also use and like the concept of self-actualization, but I have to remember that it's an unending process, not an endpoint to achieved. I have a friend who is a psychologist and once shared with me a list of 10 types of intimacy. Among them is "intellectual intimacy" which I was reminded of when you mentioned intellectual flirting. Whatever it's called, the exchange is very enlivening.
Rick, your sharing brings to mind a perspective that meaningful/deep/intimate conversations are “co-created” by both participants.
These kinds of conversations, don’t have a pre-defined outcome or endpoint. They move into intimacy as the conversation moves like a bouncing ball in whatever direction both parties wish it to go - forwarding it by way of questions and occupying each others worlds without judgment.
Wonder and awe are often experienced because neither participant could imagine before the conversation that they’d end up where they did. And both are grateful, perhaps mysteriously, at where the interaction ended up.
It’s been my experience that in these intimate conversations, ego is absent. Hallelujah to that 😀
I totally agree James that the dance of a real conversation is co-created, and I love your description of what that looks and feels like. Just joyful. It's why I actually love comment sections so much, because a taste of what you're describing can happen there, like this very kind of exchange, anchored by wonderful writing like this from Rachael.
Your best piece yet Rachel. You take us for a lovely ride inside your soul. Your soul and the words expressed by it belong in the world, touching lives both near and far.
“Thus, when I hit publish, I become the thing I want to be. I call this the Writer's Cycle of Actualization. Self-actualization is when we realize our full potential” wow such a good point and so well said! Your writing is so good and I hope you never stop playing with metaphors. The light bulb one in particular is going to stay with me. Great meta essay!
I agree with James, this is a wonderful, succinct, and rich piece of self-expression. So much in it that I personally resonate with. The trinity you name are without question what pull me to the activity of writing. In the "expression" category I put "authenticity" - which helps me focus on the type of expression that feeds me (and I think feeds others). I also use and like the concept of self-actualization, but I have to remember that it's an unending process, not an endpoint to achieved. I have a friend who is a psychologist and once shared with me a list of 10 types of intimacy. Among them is "intellectual intimacy" which I was reminded of when you mentioned intellectual flirting. Whatever it's called, the exchange is very enlivening.
Thank you, Rick, for your insightful comment about authenticity, actualization and intellectual intimacy.
And in that unending process of actualization, we must give ourselves grace.
Yes. And a sense of humor helps a lot too!
Rick, your sharing brings to mind a perspective that meaningful/deep/intimate conversations are “co-created” by both participants.
These kinds of conversations, don’t have a pre-defined outcome or endpoint. They move into intimacy as the conversation moves like a bouncing ball in whatever direction both parties wish it to go - forwarding it by way of questions and occupying each others worlds without judgment.
Wonder and awe are often experienced because neither participant could imagine before the conversation that they’d end up where they did. And both are grateful, perhaps mysteriously, at where the interaction ended up.
It’s been my experience that in these intimate conversations, ego is absent. Hallelujah to that 😀
Love this, James. Meaning is co-created
I totally agree James that the dance of a real conversation is co-created, and I love your description of what that looks and feels like. Just joyful. It's why I actually love comment sections so much, because a taste of what you're describing can happen there, like this very kind of exchange, anchored by wonderful writing like this from Rachael.
Your best piece yet Rachel. You take us for a lovely ride inside your soul. Your soul and the words expressed by it belong in the world, touching lives both near and far.
Wow, thank you, James. You’ve been so kind and supportive. I appreciate you
This came out beautifully :)
I resonate with all of this.
Here's to more ✨intellectual flirting ✨
"Live fully and carry a notebook" YESSSSS
Thank you, my dear friend. I will shamelessly intellectually flirt to my heart's desire. Even if it makes me uncool 😉
"Writing is the ultimate tool for coaching myself", so succinct and true!
And what a great article diving deep, personally and truthfully on the topic.
Loved learning about your Trinity Rachael, it helped me dig to know myself better.
Thanks Oscar! How dope it’s been to for us to figure out our writer selves together
“Thus, when I hit publish, I become the thing I want to be. I call this the Writer's Cycle of Actualization. Self-actualization is when we realize our full potential” wow such a good point and so well said! Your writing is so good and I hope you never stop playing with metaphors. The light bulb one in particular is going to stay with me. Great meta essay!
Thank you, Michelle! I promise you that I’ll keep on playing with metaphors. I pinky swear it 🤙
Intellectual flirting is such a great way to put it. I'm meeting up with a new group of people tonight so I'm going to remember this!
Hope your intellectual flirting helped you make new connections :)
Love the final version, Rachael! Brava! :)
Thank you, Silvio :)
All of this. So much goodness and wisdom in these words.
Thank you, Robert, for your kind words. It's great to connect with you here. I'm glad we crossed paths via Rick Lewis