Strange fire

Helping Friendly Newsletter, 06.04.21

GM! ☕️
Here’s what you’ll find in today’s email:

1. Strange fire

2. Rest as resistance

3. Personality tests

4. Summer reading

5. Rainbow love

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1. Strange fire

Sometimes, I feel frustrated and unsure about my response to the world’s injustice and suffering. So, I look to my heroes—an eclectic bunch, heavy on spiritual leaders and artists. In their boldest actions, I see them moving to the wisdom of “softer answers.” This power is a “strange fire.”¹

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2. Rest as resistance

Naomi Osaka’s brave decision to prioritize her health over her work is a high-profile case study for a theory I’ve shared here before: rest as resistance.

erica williams simon @missewill

Naomi ain’t the only one. The times they are a-changin. Our social contract with labor is being replaced by a higher contract to ourselves and our well being. Refusal is a freedom strategy and the word “no” can be a work plan, beloveds.

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3. Personality tests

If you use psychometrics or personality tests for personal growth or management, it’s good to apply a justice lens. Thanks to Feminist Coach Academy for the free training. I made a sketch note.👇🏼

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4. Summer reading

It’s go time, book nerds! For inspiration, you can find my lists here. I also like these collections from the NY Times, Barack Obama, Well Read Black Girl, UC Berkeley, and your high school English teacher.

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5. Rainbow love

LGBTQIA+ friends, cheers to a joyful and empowering Pride. I celebrate you!

Learn more about these beautiful colors and the history of pride flags here.

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Thank you for reading

This newsletter is a labor of love. 💌 If you would like to show your support, you can forward to a friend, venmo me a coffee, or engage my services. If you’re seeing it for the first time, you can access the archive or subscribe here.

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C’ville walk and talk – 2 spots left!

On Wednesday, 6/16, I will hold a walk and talk day in Charlottesville.This is a great opportunity for inexpensive 1-on-1 coaching. Each 45-minute session will take place while walking—JLP support with the added benefits of ditching your devices and getting some movement. We will depart from Ix Art Park, and you will set the pace. We can stroll, stretch, strut, or stride. Whatever you need.

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Treasure chest

I bet you find a gem ➔ a beginning for reparations in Virginia | you’re not lazy, you’re just conflicted | the link between great thinking and obsessive walking | the paradox lurking at the core of SpaceX² | a fascinating thread by small farmers who feed their staff | the science of awe | the best tweets come from Frog and Toad, so I made you this delightful pairing👇🏼

Frog and Toad @FrogandToadbot

TOAD WILL NOW DANCE, AND HE WILL BE WONDERFUL.

Frog and Toad @FrogandToadbot

Toad did not answer. He had fallen asleep.

Have a great weekend! I’ll see you again soon.

Jenny

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Learn more about my work at jenniferlphillips.com.

1. 🙏🏼 to AB, for leading me to this song, and to TM, who infected me with her enthusiasm for Amy and Emily in the first place.

2. Via Azeem Azhar.