Editor’s note: In addition to encoding, described in this month’s blog, Collins’ research found key phases of lives well lived: “cliff moments” (life-altering events), “fog” (navigating periods of confusion, often just after the cliffs) while maintaining “fire” (our inner drive). All commencement-address words that would be trite except for the case studies Collins goes so deeply into in this wonderful book.
Favorite excerpt:
“In writing about Benjamin Franklin and casting back through all the remarkable people in this investigation, I’m struck by the imperfections in their lives. Their stories lead me to a gigantic, calming exhale about my own life’s imperfections, letting go the anchoring weight of past mistakes and missed opportunities… whenever I find myself being pulled around backward in the saddle of my past regrets [I remember]: You cannot straighten out the road behind you.”
Peace,
Tim McCarthy
