Take a Moment
To change your underwear and take in a wee bit of joy
Greetings humans.
I was inspired by my Substack pal Becoming Phoenix who shared photos of wild critters enjoying tasty treats. I needed that moment to let out a breath of the bullshit we are swimming in. Before I get back in the fight for all our neighbors, I thought I’d offer some joy, whimsy, and a break for whoever needs it.
Self care, the awareness of needing to take care of ourselves in this moment, so that we can endure and roll up our sleeves for the long fight, is essential. We do no one any favors by jumping in to the fray without a flotation device. Because this time, there ain’t no quitting.
So, here. Exhale. And feel your body sink into the comfy couch of the Malstack.
I’ll share a few things to enjoy and fill your cup. In hopes that you will take a moment to discover or re-discover those things that bring you the joy of play.
I will start with remembering a comedic genius who died a few days ago, Catherine O’hara. And yes, it sucks that she’s gone. But she left us so much to enjoy. This conversation I’ve listened to twice, and laughed until coughing both times.
Wiser Than Me Podcast with Catherine O'Hara
And if you haven’t seen her in any of the Chris Guest films, puhleeez do yourself a solid. As a dog person, this is my favorite! Plus Jennifer Coolidge!
Music fills my soul, and I am a living room/kitchen singing loudly dance maniac, and I don’t have any hesitation sharing this. A brilliant Boston activist and artist has a new album dropping soon and I can’t wait to hear the whole thing. But here’s her IG for the first song. You’re welcome.
And here’s some love and light from me.
And I don’t care if there is two # 4’s! You’re welcome.
In this moment, it can truly be so easy to get overwhelmed and give up. But joy is always here. And if you can find just a nugget of it every damn day. That will remind us of what we are fighting for. For everyone to feel that joy. That freedom to feel full of joy. And to be embraced for it. My joy and love wants to connect with yours. And ripple the fuck out into the world.
Humor is key to getting through this shit candy called life. For me, a daily dose may include:
The Desi Lydic on The Daily Show
And I leave you with one of my favorite comedic humans.
Okay. Bye for now. Don't forget to hydrate. Love and may the scent of a frosted maple scone waft over your air space.
You have brought me joy. Your title also reminded me to do my laundry. <3
This flotation device metaphor really works. The idea that self-care isn't selfish but necessary fuel for sustained resistence genuinly shifts how I think about taking breaks. I've defintely burned out before trying to "stay strong" without recharging, and the crash always made things worse.