A Sacred Itch

These four short essays explore how we are driven by our desired and shaped by our imaginations. Each essay has the underlying assumption that what creatures full of potential, easily led astray, but capable of much good in the world. 1) Understanding Story: What kind of alchemy turns common words into this enduring human artifact that brings so much magic and meaning to our lives? What is so special, so indelible, about story. 2) The Power of Metaphors: Day-to-day language is drenched in metaphors that we aren't aware of. These hidden metaphors shape the way we think about the world and affect our behavior. They do this quietly, often subversively, but always powerfully. 3) On Changing Your Mind: Reason is pointed and sharp like a knife. But imagination is like a star--forming slowly over time and eventually glowing white hot and vibrant. You can't cut into a star with a knife. You can only fuel a star with new stories, new heroes, new rituals, new metaphors, and patiently help reshape it. 4) Pursue Pleasure: Simple pleasures are easy. They don't require much of anything from us. They come and go quickly. We crave a higher pleasure. Look deeply into what you are uniquely designed for. What does your spirit crave? And then--do the work that pleasure requires.