I have two notebooks open in front of me as I eat slowly. One is a sketchbook, one is lined paper.

Together these books are a place for reviewing yesterday’s conference sessions and conversations. And they’re a good preparation for what I might learn today.

Yesterday I had the joy of hearing one of my alums give a talk about the sustainability business she started at my university. She spoke frankly about her joy in doing good, and her frustrations at the lack of support she had when trying to save money for her alma mater and to do good for the community. This kind of work is not just about making money or solving some discrete problem. It’s also about changing hearts, minds, habits, culture. It’s long work, with a long (and hopefully fat) tail. And I think it is worth it. She and I both want to be good neighbors now, and good ancestors to those who won’t be born for another seven generations.

As I eat slowly in this quiet place, as the city around me wakes up, I am mindful of the people who live here now, and hopeful that we can make a positive difference not just for our neighbors but for all who will someday live here.

A sketch on a notepad captures a cafe scene with tables, chairs, and a large I ♥ MPLS sign, closely mirroring the illuminated and decorated environment visible in the background.