Now That You Ask

I have an abundance of mirrors and Buddha statues in my house, most of them in the literal sense, but I'd like to tell you about another pair of mirrors in my life - my elderly cats, Sid and Nancy. Their habits, challenges, and personality changes really mirror my own experiences of aging, solitude, and preference for certain routines. My cats and I share a mutual understanding and acceptance of our current stages in life. I can learn a lot about myself through what they show me.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates athttps://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

"The past, present, and future walk into a bar. It was tense." It's so interesting to me how a joke like this prompts me to think about how these three periods interact within my life. You just never know what will spark reflection I guess. Yet here I am pondering the significance and interconnection of past memories, future hopes, and the importance of living in the present moment. Through this exploration, I discover how each time period supports and shapes who I am, emphasizing the need to appreciate and balance all three aspects in my journey.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates athttps://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

Do you ever ponder the fleeting nature of existence? I sure do. Throughout different stages of my life—from my thirties to my seventies—I grapple with the realization that time passes more quickly than expected, like a shadow approaching a sunset. For this reason, I like to focus on cultivating kindness and discernment in my choices. I also strive to connect deeply with people and leave a legacy of beauty and a fulfilled life, even as I face the inevitability of my own sunset.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

I am still struggling with lingering COVID symptoms and it is really taking an emotional toll on me. Feeling exhausted, in pain, and a bit depressed, I come across an inspiring quote by Maya Angelou that prompts a transformative shift from self-pity to a feeling of openness and gratitude. This episode explores how a simple message can uplift our spirits and reminds us to embrace the beauty and radiance of new beginnings, even when life gets tough.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

I admit I have an inclination towards whining about minor discomforts. Not only that, I tend to downplay serious issues. In this episode, I share about my experience with COVID-19, detailing the symptoms and frustrations of being sick and isolated. And yet despite the misery, I find small moments of relief and realization about my body's resilience. Listen in to hear how I cope with both physical and emotional discomfort.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

The difference between hurried procrastination and trusting that things will be accomplished in good time is a matter of quieting the mind, trusting the process, and not allowing the overwhelming number of tasks there are in a day to induce anxiety. While it sounds simple enough, is not always an easy endeavor. We humans like to complicate things. But this new approach has shifted my perspective towards daily challenges, leading me to welcome trust and calmness into my routine. Like the Lao Tzu quote says, "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

This episode features two short pieces reflecting on the my adventurous life and evolving sense of beauty. Inspired by a childhood admiration for fearless characters like Nancy Drew and the free spirit of wild horses, I share experiences of traveling and exploring diverse cultures in the Middle East during the 70s and 80s. Despite not viewing myself as particularly brave, my willingness to embrace new experiences paints a picture of a life led by intuition and a belief in inherent goodness. Next a contemplation of beauty, shifting from physical appearance to a deeper, internal essence discovered through poetry and personal acceptance. This introspection leads to a realization that true beauty is felt within the heart and soul, contrasting what is visible in the mirror with an inner happiness and wisdom that continues to grow.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

On this poignant Friday the 13th, I find myself consumed by a sense of melancholy. Despite years of therapy, the sadness resurfaces, prompting me to look back on past regrets and unfulfilled desires. Yet, amidst the heaviness, I recognize the countless blessings and dreams I have realized, offering immense satisfaction and fulfillment. I am learning to embrace and integrate melancholy, using it as a guide toward self-compassion, gratitude, and a profound sense of hope for the future.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

In this episode, I share my journey of landing my first "real" job and navigating the challenges of working as a woman in the 1970s South. From a nerve-racking typewriter test to becoming a successful TV ad buyer for the Coca Cola account, I recount the obstacles I faced, including an awkward lunch meeting and a difficult medical emergency. With determination and resilience, I proved myself in a male-dominated industry and even gained the respect of my intimidating bosses.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com

Synchronicity led me to create a one woman show titled 'Made of Cotton.' From the initial suggestion in a writing class to meeting a director by chance, and ultimately performing on stage, I experienced the challenges, surprises, and joys of stepping out of my comfort zone. This transformative experience not only boosted my confidence but also helped me connect deeply with my writing and the audience, proving that synchronicity can lead to remarkable personal growth and fulfillment.

Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through her writing and experience with life’s most persistent questions.

Thank you for listening!

Listen to more episodes like this and subscribe to updates at https://nowthatyouaskpodcast.com