S'mores Stories: “Finding Meaning and Purpose through Paradox and Balance”
Since he was a child, Dan Fernandez has been driven by insatiable curiosity of what’s it all about, why are we here. His journey has been one of always going deeper, asking questions such as “What is this tree?” not only seeking an intellectual understanding, but, even stronger, having “interest and engagement that is beyond the intellectual” … and then listening. Dan actively engages both hemispheres of his brain -- the logical, linguistic, and linear left hemisphere and the relational, creative, and emotional right hemisphere -- and enjoys how their interplay results in insight.
Listening to Dan’s story will give you a sense of:
The dynamic tension of the intellectual, analytical searching for answers and the allurement of mystery and wondering;
The interdependency of all Earth beings as key to sustainability and creation of healthy systems -- all are essential parts for thriving;
How a seed of discomfort can serve as an itch that catalyzes a series of events that lead to discovery: for example, how cooling down a hot tent can lead to a career path.
Honoring difference with curiosity and his own advice to “always be a learner” have been foundations of Dan’s journey as a runner, a contemplative, a scientist, and an educator, all within the framework of a human being who asks questions and then listens deeply.
About Daniel Fernandez
Dan has been a professor at California State University Monterey Bay for over 25 years. He teaches physics and environmental studies, including classes in systems thinking and infrastructure. With a passion for sustainability and for integrating it into education, he started the Sustainable City Year Program, which integrates the efforts of faculty and their students into the sustainability endeavors of nearby municipalities. He is also a fog researcher and is active in local and international projects to collect fog as a source for water. He is dedicated to helping humanity ensure conditions for our ongoing survival and quality of life.
More from Daniel Fernandez Website | Contact
Storyteller Gift for S’mores Stories Listeners: To receive a free copy of a fog collector construction manual, email Dan at dfernandez@csumb.edu (use the Subject Line: S’mores Stories, to flag Dan’s attention)
Dan grew-up asking questions. His insatiable curiosity leads him in a life-long journey of curiosity and wonder. Whether running on a California trail or meditating during a retreat, he cultivates a sense of presence, engagement and joy that he brings to his life, work, and way of being in the world.
“S’mores Stories” is offered in the spirit of Gift Economy. Payment is in the spirit of reciprocity, according to the financial means of each participant and as a reflection of gratitude for the value received. You can make a contribution of any amount.
“S’mores Stories: Tales of Transformation Inspired by Being Outdoors” is a production of Monterey Bay Meditation Studio, an online meditation community offering courses, retreats, and programs that cultivate being aware and being kind.
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