Newsletter Archives
Take Two—12/4/2025
Ideas and inspiration for a more intentional, extraordinary life.
December 4, 2025
Words to Wonder:
When Kindness Rewrites the Story
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
— Aesop
PERSPECTIVES TO PONDER
Two years ago, in Ferrum, Virginia, a fire broke out in a residential neighborhood. The volunteer fire department rushed to the scene and battled the blaze for four hours. The fire was contained to a single home, but that family lost everything. And as if that weren’t hard enough, it happened just a few days before Christmas.
When the firefighters returned to the station, they couldn’t shake the image of the children standing in the cold, watching their home—and everything they owned—disappear in flames. So they decided to do something about it.
They took up a collection, went shopping together, and filled their fire trucks with toys, clothes, and Christmas surprises. On Christmas Day, they delivered everything to the family’s temporary home, determined to help the family still celebrate Christmas.
As the holidays approach, crowds will grow, traffic will slow, and tempers may flare. But even in the midst of the season’s chaos, opportunities to choose kindness are everywhere. And as Aesop reminded us, no act of kindness is ever wasted.
Wishing you a season filled with kindness.
THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE LIBRARY
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant
If you are looking for a book full of thought-provoking ideas and insights, I highly recommend The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson.
The book distills Naval’s most valuable insights on wealth, happiness, and intentional living. It's a book worth revisiting often as you consider how to design a more meaningful life.
Check out my favorite quotes from the book here.
STORIES WORTH KNOWING
The Power of Initiative and the Courage to Act
History often turns on the bold, visible actions of famous leaders. But just as often, it hinges on the quiet courage of someone whose name never makes the headlines.
This week I wrote about Andrew Higgins, an entrepreneur most people have never heard of, yet a man Eisenhower credited with winning the war. His persistence, foresight, and refusal to wait for permission changed the course of history.
Higgins’ story is a reminder that impact isn’t reserved for the extraordinary few. It belongs to anyone willing to notice what others overlook, step into a gap, and take action. If you’ve ever wondered whether your actions can make a difference, this story will encourage you.
Read the story HERE
BEFORE YOU GO
Our stories change with the choices we make. Firefighters chose kindness and gave the gift of Christmas. Andrew Higgins chose initiative and helped win a war. What will you choose this week? This season? In this final month of 2025?
Stay inspired by the life you’re living,
Kevin