Have you ever felt like the world is just too loud? In this episode, Joe and Curt explore The Classroom of Silence, a transformative concept from Matthew Kelly’s book The Fourth Quarter of Your Life: Embracing What Matters Most. Discover how intentional quiet time can help you connect with your inner wisdom, deepen your relationship with God, and clear out life’s noise. Get ready to unlock the power of silence and gain practical tips to start your own journey of self-discovery.

• The Classroom of Silence: A space for introspection and self-discovery where silence teaches us what we need to know.
• Intentional Quiet Time: Silence isn’t just absence of noise—it’s about being intentional, resisting distractions, and letting thoughts flow freely.
• Practical Approach: Start with 10 minutes a day in a quiet, distraction-free space. Sit still, let thoughts come and go, and journal immediately afterward.
• Difference from Meditation: Unlike mindfulness meditation, the Classroom of Silence encourages letting thoughts flow without control or judgment.

• Win: Received a clean bill of health after annual bloodwork—proof that regular check-ups are invaluable.
• Resource: American Primeval on Netflix—a gritty, historical fiction series set in 1857, filled with action and adventure.
• Quote: “We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence.” — Mother Teresa

• Win: Crafted a custom console table for his daughter, solving a hinge design problem through quiet reflection and persistence.
• Resource: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 for PlayStation 5—providing relaxation and connection through immersive gaming.
• Quote: “In the silence of the heart, God speaks. If you face God in prayer and silence, God will speak to you.” — Mother Teresa

This episode reminds us of the profound power of quiet time to clear mental clutter, deepen spirituality, and find clarity. Whether you start with 10 minutes of intentional silence or pair it with structured prayer, small steps can lead to big transformations.

Website: dudesinprogress.com
Email: dudes@dudesinprogress.com

Remember, even in silence, you can make progress. Just keep moving forward.

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We discuss Matthew Kelly's book 'The Fourth Quarter of Life,' offering practical advice for navigating the later stages of life, while emphasizing the importance of physical activity, mental stimulation, social engagement, finding purpose and more. You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE

Ever hesitate to offer advice, fearing it might be taken the wrong way—or ignored altogether? In this episode, Joe and Curt delve into the art of sharing wisdom in a way that resonates. From tough conversations with loved ones to navigating the fine line between helpfulness and intrusiveness, the Dudes break down when and how to speak up, the importance of humility, and why wisdom delivered with care can change lives.

• Listen First: People often just want to feel understood. Stephen Covey’s mantra applies: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”
• Ask for Permission: A simple, “Would you like my thoughts on this?” can shift the dynamic from intrusive to supportive.
• Lead by Example: Actions speak louder than words. Be someone they can trust based on your own experiences.
• Simplify Your Advice: Avoid overcomplicating solutions. Clear, actionable guidance is easier to follow and more impactful.
• Extend Grace: Whether to yourself or others, compassion is key—especially when facing tough or emotional conversations.

• Win: Enjoyed a much-needed holiday break filled with family time, movies, and quiet moments for reflection.
• Resource: “The Fourth Quarter of Your Life” by Matthew Kelly and Alan Hunt – A reflective guide to embracing what matters most in your later years. Perfect for contemplating how to live with intention and purpose.
• Quote: “Humility will open more doors than arrogance ever will.” – Zig Ziglar

• Win: Spent a memorable day with a longtime friend in New York City, exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art and reconnecting through meaningful conversation.
• Resource: DIY vinyl record storage project, inspired by a blog post by John Vantine. A great beginner woodworking project for practical and stylish results.
• Quote: “You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt, as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear, as young as your hope, as old as your despair.” – Douglas MacArthur

Sharing wisdom isn’t just about knowing what to say—it’s about knowing when and how to say it. With humility, patience, and intention, your words can leave a lasting impact on those you care about. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Website: dudesinprogress.com
Email: dudes@dudesinprogress.com

You can support the show by visiting dudesinprogress.com/support. Visit our Facebook page HERE and our Twitter page HERE