stay open, get curious

Over the past 21 months, it's been hard to write this newsletter. It's hard to notice what's happening in the outside world and not say something. It's hard to strike a balance between speaking out and speaking up for shared values, while being careful not to abuse a platform that we created under a non-political premise. Wading into politics has never been our strong suit, nor our inclination, yet the issues affecting us never fail to be touched in some way by the political landscape.

In these divisive times, our reaction has been to shy away. To hold back just a little bit. We've been reluctant to dive deep for fear of alienating folks. But in the process, something feels lost - something feels not as genuine as it could.

If you're tempted to stop reading, take note: there is no hidden agenda here. This is not a political rallying cry. We continue the practice of writing this newsletter, week after week, because we believe that when you continue to show up, you will eventually break through, and that's what our message is really about.

Over the past two years, we've tried to observe and sit with the realities shaped by people near and far. The prevailing feeling seems to be: 'If you're not with us, you're against us.' People seem more guarded. Worry creates a feeling of scarcity that hampers generosity and makes us more risk averse when it comes to emotions and creative endeavors. A feeling of 'winner takes all' has everyone racing to a finish line without a clear understanding of where that finish line is, or how to get there first without burning bridges and/or using up unnecessary amounts of resources.

These tenets erode daily living. They eat at quality of life for everyone. Because humans are animals built on connection. We will never be able to free ourselves from suffering until we're all free from suffering.

We've always believed that the real work happens minute-by-minute, hour-by-hour, week-by-week. While milestones are important, and pivot points can have momentum, real life happens in the decisions and choices that we all make every day. Culture comes from the hundreds of daily interactions we have with the people and things that are around us.

We will only make collective progress when we understand that a rising tide lifts all boats. It's hard to live by this rule when others don't. But the only way to make it so is to continue to plod away and live it in your everyday life. Change may take a long time, but it will be worth it. We're all connected - past, present, and future. So, in your daily interactions, connect with people in a real way. Stay open. Resist the urge for knee-jerk reactions. Stay curious. Ask questions.

Cheers,

Tay + Dor

STAY OPEN, GET CURIOUS*. . .

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