What’s special about them, given their age, is the quality of light their presence contributes. To me, experiencing that light is like a kiss from the gods.

Hanging out before a recent family wedding, I say to my 17 year-old nephew, Jordan, whom I’d seldom seen and with whom I’d never had a real conversation, “So, here’s my question to you.  Let’s assume we never meet again after today.  At my age, and how infrequently our paths cross, that’s a definite possibility.  What I’d love to know, if you’re willing to share, is––what is the most important thing you’ve learned in 17 years?”  After several seconds reflection, he says, “You can influence others a lot more with compassion than in any other way.”

I don’t know how I might have answered such a question at his age, but that sure wasn’t it.  “Wow,” I say.  “Good for you.  How did you learn that?”

“From watching the people around me,” he says.

And so began a lovely chat I hope we continue about what it means to be an awake human being––just about my favorite topic.

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