11/01/2026
As I turned 35 this week, I slowed down enough to reflect on what’s been quietly revealing itself.
How much I value silence now.
Not to disappear, but to let things settle.
How hard it still is to simply receive.
Without giving back.
Without turning rest into fuel for more output.
Just enjoying. For its own sake.
My relationship with social media is still complicated.
It has been for twelve years.
It gave me work, connection, unexpected paths.
And it sometimes pulls me out of the life I am actually living.
Both things are true.
I am learning to live with that tension.
To trust what life places in front of me. Maktub.
While still choosing a direction and walking it with intention.
I feel deep gratitude for those closest to me.
For my wife. Twelve years walking side by side.
Still protecting the original seed, pruning when needed, letting the tree grow.
And for the little chipmunk who climbs on my back.
The greatest teacher I have ever met.
More than anything, this year reminds me of the importance of honesty.
With myself.
With my practice.
With what I share and why I share it.
No polishing.
No performing presence.
No forcing meaning.
Just showing up.
Listening.
Adjusting.
The practice goes on.