In the Trusted Company of Others

In this 2024 conversation with Justine Wills Toms, poet Mark Nepo explores one of the most important aspects of being human—the power of friendship. Both ancient and modern wisdom counsel that the path to a good life is to be full of care, to work with what is given, and to look for friends along the way. Friendship is the tether that holds us as we navigate life's many thresholds. Nothing draws us through them as powerfully as the loving care of others. Friendship is an island of safety and intimacy as we share our joys, sorrows, challenges, and authenticity. 

Mark Nepo is a poet, philosopher, and a most eloquent spiritual teacher. In 2015, he was given a Life-Achievement Award by AgeNation and in 2016 was named by Watkins: Mind Body Spirit as one of the Most Spiritually Influential Living People. He was part of Oprah Winfrey’s The Life You Want Tour in 2014 and has appeared several times with Oprah on her Super Soul Sunday program on OWN TV. He is the author of many audio learning projects and over 20 books including:


- Reduced To Joy (Cleis Press 2013)
- Seven Thousand Ways to Listen: Staying Close To What Is Sacred (Free Press 2012)
- The One Life We’re Given: Finding the Wisdom That Waits in Your heart (Atria Books 2016)
- Surviving Storms: Finding the Strength to Meet Adversity (St. Martin’s Essentials 2022) 
- Falling Down and Getting Up: Discovering Your Inner Resilience and Strength (St. Martin’s Essentials 2023)
- You Don't Have To Do It Alone: The Power Of Friendship (St. Martin’s Essentials 2024)

Interview Date: 4/19/2024       Tags: Mark Nepo, honor, friendship, compassion, Organ master Lonnie Smith, Endora Welty, E.M. Forster, Personal Transformation, Philosophy, Relationship