The Gifts of Imperfection

About Your Host

Margie Sonnenburg

For 30 years I had the privilege of being a teacher...

with the Waterloo Regional District School Board. The experience of working with various educators, administrators, parents, and students allowed me to witness, time and time again, the strength of the human spirit.

And the desire we all have to build meaningful connections and live a purposeful life. Over the years, I have found that the youngsters in our life often teach us the most about authenticity, self-compassion, and goodness. Seeing the world through their eyes reminds us that beauty is found in the most ordinary of places and that wonder sparks joy, curiosity fuels adventure, and laughter heals the soul. I’ve always had an interest in learning more about emotional health, mindfulness, and the relevance of a growth mindset. One of the perks of teaching is helping struggling or anxious students change their attitude, build resilience, and develop confidence to take on new challenges.

Encouragement and human connection build understanding, self-worth, and inner strength. Our mind, body, and spirit connection is not only fascinating, but an intricate network that I want to continue to examine.

Now that I am several months in to a new chapter of my life, I’m exploring various creative interests such as gardening, designing, cooking, painting, and best of all.... grand-parenting. My love of reading and learning continues to grow each day as does my desire to embrace healthy living. So why engage in a book club? Why not create a place where ordinary people can discuss
wholehearted living.

Learning together with others is always more impactful and empowering, especially when there’s a common goal: self-improvement and self-care. Gaining knowledge from the life experiences, struggles, and insights of others is the tide that binds us, or the essence of human connection. In the words of R. Bourne: “A good discussion increases the dimensions of everyone who takes part.” Together we learn. Together we share. And together we rise.