"There are two rules on the spiritual path: begin & continue." - Sufi saying.

Self Help Matthew Smith Self Help Matthew Smith

Warping Wood: three lessons in how to change from The New Yankee Workshop.

Drawing inspiration from 'The New Yankee Workshop', I found a compelling metaphor in woodworking for addressing human and societal imperfections. Techniques like steaming, laminating, and kerfing, used by carpenters to bend wood, offer powerful parallels for reshaping our thoughts and institutions. In our current social climate, these methods reflect the urgency and necessity of reform. By understanding and applying these principles, we can actively work towards creating a society that is more inclusive, equitable, and resilient.

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Self Help Matthew Smith Self Help Matthew Smith

Change your life. Dump your couch.

In a quest to curb my TV habit, I swapped my couch for a metal folding chair, sparking a deeper journey into the power of space on our lives. Inspired by Lyla, a staunch advocate of the Craftsman style, I learned how our environment can nurture or stifle us. This story transcends home renovation, unfolding into a tale of personal transformation and a rediscovery of what truly matters.

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Self Help Matthew Smith Self Help Matthew Smith

Am I the eclipse?

In the midst of chasing a total solar eclipse and reminiscing about a memorable Royals game, I found myself in a chance encounter with a retired medical director during a road trip. This encounter led to a profound realization about the power of staying open to new possibilities, ideas, and people. It's not about mysticism or religion but the willingness to let go of ego and let the light shine through, illuminating our path and warming those around us

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