This past week was a beast. Aside from the headlines of the ongoing collapse of anything kind or empathetic in society, Marcus and I worked long hours, doing what felt like a lot of busy work. Like responding to emails requesting documents, followed by responding to more emails saying, “Oh wait, not that document …”. And going to last-minute appointments and meetings that required our compulsory attendance. And helping coworkers who needed things right. this. minute. By the end of the week, we were both feeling decidedly discombobulated.
It was time for some oxygen therapy. So we packed up the dog and left town for the night.
Our oasis of choice? Getaway House, now called Postcard Cabins. It’s a brilliant concept: campsites located less than two hours from metropolitan centres all over the country. But these are the kinds of campsites that I would frequent: kitchenettes, heat/AC, private bathrooms (a must), all nestled in the woods out of sight of your nearest neighbour.
Our overnight trip was just what the doctor ordered. I always maintain that self-compassion should be something you frontload: You don’t treat yourself with compassion only when you’re completely burnt out, but also before it’s time for you to go back in — to work, to activism, to life. Self-compassion is how we gather the energy — hell, the will — to deal with the world. Self-compassion isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
So: before we start this week, click on the video above to join Marcus and me (and Soca!) in the woods.
And breathe.
Okay.
Let’s go make some light.
in defense of dabbling is available for preorder!
My new book, In Defense of Dabbling: The Brilliance of Being a Total Amateur (coming September 2025!) is now available for preorder! I learned so much in writing this book, including the beautiful possibilities of living a self-transcendent life — and I hope, when you read it, you do, too.
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