WHAT INSPIRES YOU, AND BRINGS YOU PEACE? For me it’s nature, solitude, the chance to write again. It’s also discovering accidental teachers like Alice Herz-Sommer, who may inadvertently be the most inspirational “motivational speaker” I’ve ever heard. Alice, the subject of an upcoming documentary, turns 107 years old this month, and is the oldest living Holocaust survivor—with the most positive life view imaginable, in no small part fueled by her passion for music. “Music is god,” she says, and I agree. May we all be so blessed to relish each day as Alice does. To celebrate her birthday, I offer a copy of my upcoming book–just tell us in the comments what inspires you and brings some peace, won’t you? <–Update: the video was removed from public use 11/11 because of an overwhelming response, its creator says; this is one he has posted instead:

I’ll keep an eye out for the return of the original; the new one bears no comparison. Meantime, there are two BBC radio interviews from a few years back if you want to get further acquainted with Alice: Part 1 and Part 2.

I’ll select a winner at random on Wednesday, November 10; entries close at midnight Tuesday the 9th. As ever, I’ll accept entries that don’t include any details beyond, “Count me in,” but I’d love to hear your answers if you’re willing to share.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be offering books that inspire me, and more advance copies of my own. I’ve got some favorites on order, so stay tuned.