​​Exhibit A.
How the celebrations began one week ago: tarte tartin on Thursday. 

Keep reading for Exhibit B.
How the celebrations wrapped up: a mysterious bouquet of flowers delivered on October 26, my birthday.

I've long observed that when it comes to the people I encounter in my life there are usually three (not six!)  degrees of separation. Still, I did a double take when I saw this configuration of speakers on the registration page of The Dalai Lama Global Vision Summit. I've never met Dr. Villoldo, but we have previously appeared side-by-side. Sorta.

This morning I happily drove to pick up copies of The New York Times featuring an article about Amandla’s friendship with fellow actor Rowan Blanchard. Ahead of me was a very large man – in height and girth – who purchased half a dozen magazines.
 
“Would you like a bag with that?” asked the newsstand man.
 
“No, thanks,” replied the customer.
 
I placed my five hefty issues of the Sunday Times on the counter and handed him my credit card. He rang up my purchase. Silence. “May I have a bag please?” I asked.
 
“Sure,” he said, reaching for a white plastic bag behind him and placing the  papers inside.
 
I immediately launched into my default way of being and interacting in the world, a tactic I think I learned, perhaps unconsciously, from my mother. I engaged him.

1. Heading out the door to Agape the last Sunday in February aka Black History Month.