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https://www.ted.com/talks/christina_costa_how_gratitude_rewires_your_brain

“As way opens” is a reference to the old Quaker saying that we should “Proceed as way opens” after patient, prayerful waiting for Spirit to move in the world, and open or reveal the way forward.”

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On Wednesday, November 23, we heard from Christina Costa, MSc, a Psychology PhD candidate at University of Michigan.

When a psychologist who studies well-being ends up with a brain tumor, what happens when she puts her own research into practice? Christina goes beyond the "fight" narrative of cancer -- or any formidable personal journey -- to highlight the brain benefits of an empowering alternative (hint: gratitude) to fostering resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

Christina is most passionate about inclusive learning in higher education. She teaches psychology to undergraduate and high school students. In 2020, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor in the right hemisphere of her brain. As a neurodivergent educator, she hopes to inspire others to celebrate neurodiversity and give hope to other brain cancer and brain tumor patients. She loves hippos, is Beyoncé's number one fan, and would do anything for her students.

We invite you to bring a spirit of curiosity to these gatherings and to all aspects of your life. What are you noticing? Where is Spirit moving? How are you being invited to participate?