Today is the second day of the International Coach Federation conference. I didn’t think I would be blogging much while away from home. But what I’ve found is that when I’m in a new setting, writing helps me make meaning of my experiences.

Yesterday, the keynote speaker was Rachel Naomi Remen. She’s the author of the books, Kitchen Table Wisdom and My Grandfather’s Blessing. Her writing is the re-telling of stories so that meaning is shared, from one human being’s experience to another. Her talk had the same effect.

First, it’s important to note the impact this woman had before she spoke a word. I can only describe her presence as heavenly. This is not mortals bowing to god. It is each of us finding our own peace in the presence of someone who exudes peace. Peace with herself. Peace with life. It’s no wonder that she started off the talk with a story about her mother’s last words before she died: "I am satisfied."

Dr. Remen treats cancer patients and her stories are about wholeness. What she sees in situations that appear bleak to others, she sees the potential for wholeness. She spreads this message through story-telling. To quote her, "People sometimes need stories more than food." My kind of gal. More later. I’m off to catch a train to go to the conference.