Ripples
Every Monday since 1999, Paul has been sending out Ripples, an email containing two upbeat quotes submitted by readers (Pebble, Boulder) and something to think about for the week (Ponder). Enjoy recent issues below, and farther down you can use the keyword cloud or search bar to dive into our archive of over 1,300 issues. Have a quote that might make a good Pebble or Boulder? Submit it here!

Sign up for Ripples: Paul's weekly inspirational email

Ripples #1390: Life Amidst Its Perils

PEBBLE
Strength is the knowledge that you are living inside a long, deep and beautiful story.
~unknown Tarot Card reader, shared by Emily in Dublin, Ireland (who found this line in a New York Times article)

BOULDER

I remembered that the real world was wide, and that a varied field of hopes and fears, of sensations and excitements, awaited those who had courage to go forth into its expanse, to seek real knowledge of life amidst its perils.…
Read More »
January 12, 2026

Ripples #1389: Looking Forward

PEBBLE
If you only focus on what you left behind you will never see what lies ahead.
-Gusteau from Ratatouille [lightly edited], shared by Robin in Milwaukee, WI

BOULDER

This is the challenge of life, isn’t it?…
Read More »
January 5, 2026

Ripples #1388: Looking Back

Ripples #1388: Looking Back
Dec 29, 2025
PEBBLE
I can’t erase the past, only learn from it. It’s okay. Applying what I know makes the present and future a beautiful place to be.…
Read More »
December 28, 2025

Ripples #1387: Joy to the (Imperfect) World

PEBBLE
Joy is supposed to slither through the cracks of your imperfect life. That’s how joy works.
~Harry Baker, shared by Angela in Ridgeland, SC

BOULDER

Joy and woe are woven fine,
A clothing for the soul divine;
Under every grief and pine
Runs a joy with silken twine.…
Read More »
December 22, 2025
Keywords
Action Attitude Best Self Carpe Diem Change Choices Compassion Connectedness Conquer Courage Discipline Embrace Possibility Explore Face it Friendship Generosity Goals Gratitude Growth Happiness Hope Joy Kindness Leadership Life Love MLK Optimism Passion Patience Persist Perspective Preparing to Win Priorities Reflection Release Renewal Responsibility Rippliness Risk Savor Service Shine Surrender Values
Search