Every so often, when you’re looking the other way, the universe dishes up a giant serving of awesome. 

This week, I had the tremendous good fortune of being invited to see a taping of Oprah’s “Life Class”.  

9000 (yes!) die-hard Oprah fans lined up for hours to gain access to this event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. 

Fortunately for me, my host had VIP tickets for the taping, so we were able to bypass most of the four-hour wait time to get in.

The auditorium was massive… with rows of seats that went so far back, I couldn’t even see to the end.  

Incredibly, our seats were 10 rows from the stage.

And, striding on stage, like a warrior goddess, was the Big O herself. She looked stunning.

Somewhere above me, I could feel the spirit of my late mother looking down. And TOTALLY. FREAKING. OUT. 

Oprah has assembled some truly amazing teachers. Deepak Chopra, Tony Robbins, Iyanla Vanzant and Reverend T.J. Jakes are wise, thoughtful and incredibly gifted communicators.  

Each teacher gave an individual presentation for 30-45 minutes… then they each appeared in a segment with Oprah as part of the taped “Life Class” program.  

The individual presentations were awe-inspiring. I probably had more “aha” moments in the four hours I spent at this event than I’d experienced in 16 years at school. I wish everyone could audit this class.

I jotted down many quotes throughout the evening. A few that stood out for me were:

1. Forgiveness is a gift that you give yourself.

2. Do what you did at the beginning of your relationship – and it may never end.  

3. The only difference between the CEO and the janitor… the happy and the suicidal… are the thoughts that they think.

4. Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure.

Simple, powerful stuff. Thanks, Oprah. xo

I’ve been schooled.