sustainable systems & storytelling
Three years ago, I moved into my boyfriends house, bringing with me over 900 books. When he asked whether I really needed all of them, I answered "yes" matter-of-factly. I loved my books and I wanted to keep them all, even those that had been boxed up in storage for over a decade. That question--Do you... Continue Reading →
After a major flood forced us out of our house, my boyfriend and I were forced to pack our lives into the backseat of our cars. For over 100 days, we got by with three outfits each, a bag of toiletries, and some books. The lack of "stuff" was incredibly freeing. So, when we returned... Continue Reading →
The last several months have been a chaotic whirlwind of scary medical diagnoses, home flooding, heartbreaking pet loss, gnarly medical treatments, shitty contractors, an overwhelming sense of loneliness, and thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses. A few weeks ago, on a particularity rough day, I woke up to a bouquet of flowers and a card... Continue Reading →
In yoga, teachers often speak of non-attachment, encouraging students to embrace a mindset of contentment. When things go wrong--as they always do--we are told to sit back and observe our feelings, watching them float past without judgement. The same practice is advised for celebratory occasions to which we may cling: observe any thoughts and allow... Continue Reading →
The last month has been a whirlwind of events beyond my control. I've faced challenges in my environment, my career, and my heath. Ten years ago, I would have collapsed under the weight of it all, surely assigning blame to external factors and wallowing in self-pity. Thankfully, over the last decade I've discovered Buddhism and... Continue Reading →
Two weeks ago, I wrote about being sick, broke, and homeless. Repeatedly, I've been reminding myself that it's all about perspective. My in-laws just returned from India, where poverty was uncomfortably rampant. My good friend's boyfriend moved out without explanation, and then returned back the next day with the loaded moving truck and a half-hearted... Continue Reading →
Right now, I'm sick, broke, and homeless. As the old adage goes, "when it rains, it pours." As much as I want to curse the sky for soaking me to the core, I need to remember that I can pull out an umbrella or step inside whenever I'd like. “Emotionally we have many problems, but these... Continue Reading →
