October: Special Edition
“Forgive yourself for not knowing what you didn’t know before you learned it.” — Maya Angelou
Hello,
I hope you’re well. I’m writing this special edition from the room in Alipore (aka home) where this newsletter started on a whim nearly eight years ago. It’s kind of surreal knowing that all of you who will be receiving this in your inbox within the next hour actually contributed to this seed of an idea at some point over the years. Thank you, dear gardeners of The Alipore Post. This blooming tree is grateful forever. 🌷
This month, I’d like to talk about two big lessons that I’ve been trying to incorporate in my life more proactively.
1. Do, don’t say
I’ve always been someone who believes in manifesting. In action-oriented living. At the same time, it’s equally easy to be swayed by the hundred good ideas I’d want to pursue and then the disappointment when most of those don’t see the light of day. This also applies to unrealistic goals like quitting bad habits, or just staying on top of things constantly.
The solution, as a friend taught me, was Do, don’t say. Take that first step, follow through, then feel good about it. The whole jazz about The Secret and the universe making things happen once you put the intention out is bullshit, in my opinion and experience. Keep it real. Watch an idea or habit grow. Then, when it feels like you’ve actually gone ahead and done it, celebrate.
It’s a similar philosophy to the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s famous edict Build, don’t talk, which another friend told me about last week.