From Bob McKinnon comes this modern retelling of the beloved classic, Little Engine that Could, that asks young readers, “How does your journey differ from others?” It also serves as a thank you letter to all the parents, teachers, role models, and even strangers, who help to clear the storm or pull the tree trunk from their track.
Available in your favorite bookstores.
Have you ever asked yourself this question? Or wondered why your life turned differently than you expected or from others you know. On this site, you’ll find tools, writing and podcast episodes that explores this question and others. Watch Bob’s TEDx talk to learn about his journey and the science behind how we see our lives and those of others.
Children’s Books
I think I can, I think I can, I think I… can’t? What’s an Engine to do when even believing in yourself won’t get you to the top of the mountain? In this modern retelling of the beloved The Little Engine That Could, The Little Blue Engine and her friends attempt to reach the town on the other side of the mountain, but they quickly realize that not every engine is on the same track, and they all face different obstacles in their journey. In Three Little Engines author Bob McKinnon asks young readers: How does your journey differ from others?
While paying homage to the beloved classic, author Bob McKinnon acknowledges that although positive thinking and confidence are important, they are not always enough to help you succeed. In many instances, success requires a helping hand. This book is a gentle introduction to the idea of socioeconomic mobility and inequality in America. Heavily inspired by his own experiences, McKinnon teaches the youngest of readers how to recognize opportunity and inequality in the American Dream, and, most importantly, how to extend a helping hand to those on different tracks of life. At its heart, Three Little Engines is a thank you letter to all the parents, teachers, role models, and even strangers, who help to clear the storm or pull the tree trunk from your track.
Three Little Engines is now a New York Times best seller! Order your copy today from your favorite online bookseller or your local bookstore:
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Newsletter
Ho’oponopono
My wife and I have been watching the show, The Pitt lately. Each episode covers one hour of a twelve hour shift in an emergency room in a Pittsburgh hospital. The show is tremendous in every way; full of humanity and dignity.
One storyline focused on a pair of siblings trying to do what’s right by their father who is dying. At some point to help them cope with this incredibly difficult situation, the doctor introduces them to the Hawaiian concept of Ho’oponopono. It is suggested as a means to find closure in saying goodbye to their father. It is built around the simple mantra of telling your loved one that you love them, you are grateful for them, you are sorry for any wrongdoing and that you are seeking and giving forgiveness.
Watching each sibling practice this ritual and share their feelings with their father was simultaneously heartbreaking and beautiful.
When their father eventually dies, the siblings look at each other. Their loss is palpable and for a moment they seem lost themselves. The doctor recognizes this and says, “You are the primary relationship now. You are the holder of memories.”
While this scene centered around the loss of a relationship, it seemed to me a reminder of the primacy of all our relationships.
It should not require us to wait until our deathbed to resolve our feelings towards another. Or to have loss be the catalyst for appreciating our interdependence or the value of shared memories.
After the episode, I wanted to learn more about Ho’oponopono and discovered that it is not a ritual reserved for farewells. Rather it is a practice of reconciliation and healing to be practiced whenever necessary. “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you;” a collection of words so simple yet sometimes so hard.
It made me recall the Trace Chapman song, “Baby Can I Hold You Tonight.”The first three verses begin with “Sorry, Forgive Me and I Love You,” followed by the phrase, “words that you can’t say.”
I’m not sure if Chapman’s lyrics were inspired by Ho’oponopono but we should be. There is too much conflict in the world to let it fester in our own homes, families or neighborhoods. Resolving conflict and sharing difficult feelings is hard but is it harder than holding on to them?
Recommendation of the Week. Watch The Pitt. There are a lot worse things to do with your time than spending an hour watching people help others.
Consider sharing this with someone who could benefit from a little Ho’oponopono.
Monday Morning Notes
Delivered to your mailbox each Monday morning, these short notes offer an opportunity each week to reflect on who and what contributes to where we end up in life. Readers tell us it’s a great way to start their week on a positive note. See the latest note below:
Ho’oponopono
My wife and I have been watching the show, The Pitt lately. Each episode covers one hour of a twelve hour shift in an emergency room in a Pittsburgh hospital. The show is tremendous in every way; full of humanity and dignity. One storyline focused on a pair of siblings trying to do what’s right …
Attribution with Bob McKinnon
Attribution is a podcast, where people from all walks of life, reflect on who and what has contributed to where they ended up. Our hope is after each episode, you feel a little more inspired, grateful, or supported, then when you first hit play. Check out the latest episode below:
Episode 29: Random w/ Mark Rank
Mark R. Rank is recognized as a foremost expert on issues of poverty, inequality and social justice. To date he has written 10 books on a range of subjects, including an exploration of the American Dream and a new understanding of poverty and inequality. In this episode, I talk to Mark about his latest book, The Random Factor which looks at the role of luck and chance in shaping the course of our lives. It was a fascinating discussion, one I was lucky to have. I hope you enjoy.
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