Lis Soderberg is a singer songwriter who resides in Toronto, Canada....
I wanted to include her in our Ten Questions because of her natural insight into the world and her beautifully inquisitive mind, which is one of the most open vessels I have ever seen. Lis, from my experience actually lives from the phrase many of us simply recite, that being "Do unto others...". Her wonderful new album "Refuge" is available on her website as a physical CD or as a digital download. You can hear a sample here: http://lissoderberg.bandcamp.com/album/refuge
From her website, I quote:
Music is not her only passion; she is an ardent fan of art in general. "I think art, or any act of creation, is entirely necessary. There are times when we're overcome or overwhelmed, beyond logic or reason, and the only thing that seems to make any sense is when we let ourselves get 'inside' with some kind of creative act."
Please stop into her website and find out more: http://www.lissoderberg.com/
Here are our ten questions:
What is on your mind lately?
These days what I'm thinking about in a practical way is multitasking; can't live with it, can't live without it. Same with technology. And as always I'm obsessed with the concept of creativity, especially when it comes from unexpected places.
What is the kindest thing you have ever known someone to do?
That's a tough one ... I've seen a lot of kindness, but I am always moved by how people invariably rise to the occasion in the face of tragedy. (Not everyone, unfortunately — but almost everyone.)
When was the last time you felt inspired?
Is there a sliding scale? A little inspired yesterday when I decided to crumble a coconut cookie over coffee yogurt (MMMmm), and a lot inspired a few days ago when I was thinking about ways for artists to collaborate/cross-pollinate. (I'm making a list.)
What are you sure of?
I have a deep conviction that no matter how awful or challenging a situation is, there is always a way to make it better, and there is always some necessary thing to learn from it.
What do you love about people?
Our infinite variety, and our capacity to constantly push past our limitations.
What gives you butterflies in your tummy?
Heart palpitations.
How do you combat stress?
A while back when life was just a little too jam-packed I noticed that things which would normally make me very stressed no longer had the same effect; I guess I "blew a fuse", as they say ... and I just never bothered to replace it. Spending time with the people I love is always magic, but when time & schedules are tight I can get a lot of mileage out of a great design magazine and a CD player (my fave right now is 1930's music).
What do you value most in people?
Integrity, creativity, a desire to contribute something worthwhile to the world, and the ability & willingness to imagine oneself in another's shoes.
What is the best advice you ever received?
"Don't quit your day job." No, wait, that wasn't it ...
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Yes, a lot more time with my family and friends — a remarkable collection of beautiful souls, and I'm grateful every single day to know & love you!