I used to define self-respect all wrong. I thought it was about outer appearance and treating others the way you want to be treated. But that view doesn’t make sense at all. Through painful experiences and deep reflection, I’ve learned that having self-respect means caring for yourself first – treating yourself with utmost love, care,…

Ever notice how clearing your physical space somehow clears your mind too? I’ve discovered that each phase of letting go in my minimalist journey corresponds directly with moments of mental breakthrough and healing. Earlier this year in Chicago, I finally confronted the dresses I’d bought in Europe – the same ones I wore during the…

Working at the bakery is a whole different kind of exhausting. It’s not just my feet that ache by the end of the day—it’s like every part of me feels the impact of standing and physical work. After years in IT and InfoSec, nearly seven years working from my bed, a chair, a cafe, etc……

I’ve had a profound realization lately about the way I give of myself to others. Having a kind and peaceful heart in an often unkind world can be both a blessing and a challenge. I’ve always believed in treating others with the same kindness and respect I hope to receive. It’s not about pleasing others…

Have you ever noticed how your mind feels after a week of microwave meals versus homemade dishes? I’ve experienced both sides, and the mental toll of relying on ultra-processed foods is far greater than we often realize. Over the past nine years—and especially during my time in Europe, I completely changed how I ate, and…

As political divides widen and societal structures buckle under unprecedented pressures, a deep truth emerges: our survival and well-being increasingly hinge on the strength of our local communities and villages. The systems we once unquestioningly relied on are showing their limitations, struggling to fully address today’s complex challenges. It’s becoming clear that the solution isn’t…