I was considered the black sheep of my family, which always confounded me. I believe it was because I didn't follow suit, I pushed against convention and believed in systems that didn't exist. I would resist against and be defiant. I would go after the things I wanted...
As you transition into the darkest days of the year, you’re likely busy. The holiday season is always rife with activity, and whether you’re a festive indulger or this season feels annoying, there tends to be a frenetic frequency in the air. In the midst of all the...
When my daughter was a toddler in the playground, I’d leave her alone and let her fumble her way through the obstacles. I was present and aware, but I chose to keep my hands off. I was always surprised and annoyed by other parents who would try and protect her as she...
Recently, one of my readers came into my workplace and said, “I read your Mindless Mondays.” We both broke out into laughter at the irony of the mistake. But this is one of the reasons I chose to put a pause on my weekly column: I needed to re-evaluate my reason for...
You know what makes life feel easy? Not having to deal with other people. If you’re an introvert, you understand: it’s easier to avoid conflict when you’re alone. As an introvert myself, I could easily get pulled into being on my own. Not having to negotiate or...
When I was in my twenties, I had a girlfriend who was distraught about turning 25. She felt old and imagined she’d be in a much different place in her life than she was. I was confused; we were in the prime of life, young enough to play hard but old enough to make...
I’m know that I have a different way of looking at the world, not everyone see’s things the way I do, and that’s a good thing. Having different perspectives and opinions is healthy. Culturally in Canada we are known for being agreeable, submissive, not wanting to rock...
As I was getting undressed for bed one night, I found myself in a moment of awakening. I noticed that I was having an argument with none other than myself. I was debating over what I should wear, which book I should read, when I should turn off my light and berating...
I’ve gotten into the habit of not sitting still. I have a meditation practice that I sometimes neglect, and when I do I’m off in all ways. When I’m careless with it, my body is less peaceful and I’m easily triggered. My Inability to sit still has to do with a steady...
In 2006 I led a three-month expedition in the Yukon and Alaska. It was a truly epic trip (and I don’t use the word ‘epic’ freely). We backpacked for the first month in the mountains, and were later met with a float plane and switched gear for a month of...