Open Mind Archives - Blocks of Life

October 12, 2024September 1, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Self-honesty—Keeping it Real

Honesty is one of the most important qualities we can have as people. Honesty is key in interpersonal relationships, forming the basis for trust, loyalty, and love. But more important than honesty with other people is honesty with yourself. Dishonesty with yourself can lead to a whole host of problems and issues, and the only way to address them is by coming clean. Self-honesty is also the only path toward a meaningful life. If your path isn’t genuine, it will lack meaning. Honesty can be challenging, but it just takes practice, like any habit.

September 28, 2024October 3, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Take to Travel—Making the Most of Time Away

Travel can be trying for many people. The stress of driving and flying, the arrangements to make for pets, the packing—it can all lead to a feeling of dread about traveling. But, like most things, a little planning and an open mind can cure a lot of ills. Flexibility in travel can help make for a relaxed, rejuvenating time and allow for some spontaneity of experience with unforeseen opportunities that arise. However, having some goals and a good idea of what you might do can help set the tone for the trip you want. Ultimately, a balance between flexibility and planning will lower the stress and make for meaningful and rewarding travel.

August 31, 2024July 13, 2024 by Pete Wiley

The End, but Not the End—Understanding Death

A good friend of mine died recently, and I was confused about how I handled it. It was a shock for sure, as his passing was unexpected. But then, because he wasn’t part of my day-to-day life, the feeling wore off quickly. I felt guilty that I was getting on with my life so fast. Death affects us in different ways and depends on a variety of factors, but it will always be a part of our lives. We all have to experience it; like anything else, it’s healthy to do it intentionally.

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August 17, 2024July 1, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Every Moment is a Transition

Change is a good thing. But, sheesh, enough already.

Last year, I retired from a job I held for 36 years and am devoting myself to Blocks of Life full-time. I’m still in the midst of that transition, but I’m barely making the top five in terms of the transitions around me. My wife is retiring next week, my mother is turning 90 (also next week), and my son recently began his first full-time job. Needless to say, parties abound, and I’m just trying to keep up. Transitions are the specific manifestations of an evolving life. Although they can cause anxiety and are not always thought of in a completely positive light, they should always be celebrated.

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July 20, 2024June 4, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Body Communication—Learning from Illness and Injury

I don’t seem to get sick that much—not since the days of having a young child in the petri dish of daycare and elementary school. But when I do get sick, I try to listen to my body. It’s easy to become grumpy about the lost time and missing out on events and experiences. At the same time, it’s a unique opportunity to experience your mind-body-spirit in different (and challenging) circumstances. It can be similar for injuries. Yes, they can be painful, slow you down, and prevent you from engaging in certain activities. But they also force you to be more mindful and listen to your body.

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