1. I came very close to putting a gun to my head and pulling the trigger about 20 years ago. Thank goddess that I was too scared about what might or might not happen after death, and that I was made barely sufficiently hopeful by a few things in my life that seemed that they might keep me going – the wilderness, Grateful Dead music, a few friends, and my not wanting to destroy my kids’ lives – that I didn’t. 2. Cuddles are sunlight and air, food and water, all sorts of vital nourishment for the body and for the soul! 3. God yes I am so ready to stop trying to self improve, and to start trying to accept myself. Thank you for the inspiration!
I'm so glad you had just enough things to look forward to to keep you alive, Jonathan. I'm happy you're alive and appreciate you being here. And it's exciting to hear you've had enough of self-improvement and are ready for self-acceptance. It's worth every effort.
Since losing my cat this year (today is her birthday) I find it’s very hard to soothe my parasympathetic nervous system. What a gift it is to have a cuddle everyday!
Sorry about your neighbour Ryan, it must be terrible to receive news like that. Death puts everything back into perspective. You realise that life’s too short to not be happy or to complain and think about what could be different.
Regarding the cuddling, that’s a great reminder.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a partner at the moment 🥲, I guess I’ll have to give my mum a hug. 😄
Thanks for your kind words, Stefano. It was hard to hear, so your note is appreciated. You’re right, death helps us appreciate being alive. I’m sure your mum would appreciate a hug! 🤗
1. I came very close to putting a gun to my head and pulling the trigger about 20 years ago. Thank goddess that I was too scared about what might or might not happen after death, and that I was made barely sufficiently hopeful by a few things in my life that seemed that they might keep me going – the wilderness, Grateful Dead music, a few friends, and my not wanting to destroy my kids’ lives – that I didn’t. 2. Cuddles are sunlight and air, food and water, all sorts of vital nourishment for the body and for the soul! 3. God yes I am so ready to stop trying to self improve, and to start trying to accept myself. Thank you for the inspiration!
I'm so glad you had just enough things to look forward to to keep you alive, Jonathan. I'm happy you're alive and appreciate you being here. And it's exciting to hear you've had enough of self-improvement and are ready for self-acceptance. It's worth every effort.
Since losing my cat this year (today is her birthday) I find it’s very hard to soothe my parasympathetic nervous system. What a gift it is to have a cuddle everyday!
I’m sorry to hear you lost your cat. Happy posthumous birthday to her! Hopefully, you other beings to cuddle with.
Sorry about your neighbour Ryan, it must be terrible to receive news like that. Death puts everything back into perspective. You realise that life’s too short to not be happy or to complain and think about what could be different.
Regarding the cuddling, that’s a great reminder.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a partner at the moment 🥲, I guess I’ll have to give my mum a hug. 😄
Thanks for your kind words, Stefano. It was hard to hear, so your note is appreciated. You’re right, death helps us appreciate being alive. I’m sure your mum would appreciate a hug! 🤗
Physical contact is a beautiful way to destress and cultivate connection simultaneously.
I also appreciated your scientific evidence sprinkled regarding the neurochemistry.
Cuddling really is a satisfying way to destress and connect. I figured some may appreciate knowing it’s not just anecdotal. Thanks, Jimmy.
Big hug / cuddle person. Big believer in them. Good write up!
Great stuff Ryan!!
Thanks, Patrick! Glad it landed, my friend.