Why So Many of Us Feel Like We Don't Belong | Pádraig Ó Tuama

What does it mean to belong, to yourself, to others, and to a life that's constantly changing?

In this powerful conversation, Chip Conley sits down with Irish poet, theologian, and conflict mediator Padraig O Tuama to explore belonging, grief, identity, faith, and the wisdom that comes with midlife.

You'll learn:

• Why belonging isn't always what we think it is
• How poetry helps us navigate loss and uncertainty
• Padraig's journey through religion, sexuality, and reparative therapy
• What turning 40 taught him about mortality and meaning
• Why love may be life's most important practice

Filled with beautiful poetry, profound insights, and heartfelt stories, this episode is a reminder that even in life's most difficult seasons, you belong here.

Watch now and let us know: What line or insight stayed with you most?

Timestamps:

(02:30) Poetry as Cultural Memory

(05:19) The Purpose of Poetry

(06:41) When Is a Poem Finished?

(07:33) Becoming a Poet

(10:13) Faith, Sexuality, and Identity

(12:37) Exorcisms and Reparative Therapy

(19:16) Belonging and Conflict

(22:47) How to Be Alone

(25:12) Grief, Breathing, and Death

(30:16) Sleeping in His Mother's Bed

(33:19) Midlife and the Shock of Turning 40

(36:42) Birthday Prayer

(39:32) Midlife Awakening and Change

(41:36) The Facts of Life

(45:11) Love, Death, and Wisdom

(47:02) Desire, Lack, and Meaning

(48:13) Final Reflections and Closing

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

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