Last Friday was a banner day for Discovery. I encountered new ideas, new people, and new perspectives. We live in a big wonderful world full of people who are eager to challenge the status quo and to challenge you to do the same. Let me tell you about TEDxGreenville and Banff Mountain Film Festival.

TEDxGreenville was phenomenal; if I could have stayed forever, I would have. By its nature, the event attracts the innovators, movers, and shakers of a city. You are surrounded by people who want to create positive change; how can you not soak some of that in?

Three of my favorite speakers were:

• Thomas Riddle, “Imagineering Education:” What we have is not working (or could work better). Let’s incorporate PLAY and make it fun!
• Knox White, “Discovering Your City’s Personality:” In essence, a talk about being yourself. Find the quality that already makes you a star, then share it with everyone. Case and point: Falls Park.
• Phil Yanov, “Bang a Drum. Build a Tribe. Start a Movement:” Precision advice for how to take your mission and make it a community mission. Do you hear my drum yet?

I know the list would be longer if I had been able to see all of the talks, I participated in TEDxGVL as a volunteer occasionally had other duties to attend. If you are asking “what is TED?” visit this website TED.com and watch a video.

On the heels of a hugely stimulating day at TED, I attended the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour for the first time. One word: Wow!

I spent the day exploring the mind and society and the evening exploring the extremes of human adventure. The individuals in the videos will inspire you to follow your dreams (though I doubt many will take up the call for Antarctica). These modern day explorers have the gumption, stamina, and wit to push the edge of the possible. If you have the chance to see the tour, I highly recommend it.

Here’s to another weekend of Discovery!