Marietta McCarty
is a New York Times bestselling author, philosopher, and teacher. She defines philosophy as “the art of clear thinking," and invites every one she encounters (or anyone who picks up one of her books) into the good life, marked by simplicity and the fullness of life's greatest treasures.
Countless children and adults, picking up a racquet, find access and acceptance easier because of her. Serena invites one and all to play. “Kick butt and be proud of it all.” She reimagined her life and the game. What she’s achieved for social equity, in race and gender, will grow immeasurably.
Read MoreThe US Open, last of the tennis Grand Slam events of the year, always marks my summer’s end and provides an opportunity to connect with tennis-playing and loving friends and family. Texting commentaries with my college roommate take us timelessly back to our old dorm as we watch this same tournament together from afar. While this year’s tournament had its dazzling array of one-handed backhands and deft drop shots, what will stay with me are the lessons for wise living captured by the athletes. Here are but a few.
Read More
Well-worth the time-travel hearing from 13th century Persian poet Rumi that “Your Laughter Turns the World to Paradise.” A budding flower cuddles in the ground and “its hidden smile opens to a laugh that / lasts a lifetime.” Like grateful athletes, we laugh whether winning or losing. Love and laughter sing a duet: “I have a heart of sunlight.”