On fires: transformation, digestion, motivation, and possibility

Redefining, rebuilding, and reclaiming

Energy is neither created nor destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In the process of transformation, there is change, often impacting opposing forces. The opposing forces in the natural world are among us—chaos vs. order, growth vs. decay, or fire vs. water. These dualities make it clear that there are forces present and they co-exist. In other words, there can’t be one without the other. I think often about the dualities of our interiority and what we experience in the exterior around us. At any given moment, how are they related and how can we use what is in our control to support the outcomes we want? Are we tending to our subconscious thoughts and the spaces we occupy most? Are we showing up and focusing on what matters to us? We are among dynamic systems and we too are dynamic. Our bodies are made up of complex systems—the nervous system, circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, and so on—all with their own interconnected relationships. We are interdependent, relying on each other and various systems for transformation.

With the dynamism around and within us, we must stay nimble and adaptable.

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We are deep into the winter, though the song Springtime Again has been a fixture during my commute this week, knowing warmer weather and a rebirth is to come.

In the frigid cold, I was knocked with the reminder to save ourselves. To be empowered to choose what we need in this moment. This moment, for me, calls for stripping things down to the bare essentials. No extraneous outsourcing, no superfluous spending. It calls for being resourceful and creative with what I have. To use what I’ve already cultivated. It is also a time for execution and implementation. I am going through my freezer and using the frozen fruits to make compotes and smoothies. This week I used frozen ground coconut flakes to make a mixed berry crumble. The crumble topping was spiced with ginger and turmeric.

This week’s mixed berry crumble

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The top of 2025 has been about coming to terms with the fact that we must rebuild. With destructive fires and broken systems, it is apparent that the opportunities for transformation and a rebirth are among us. The uncertainty and angst are palpable.

We must rebuild and reclaim our joys, curiosities, genealogies, wisdom, and power.

As we get into this letter, take a moment and pause. Grab some tea and take your time, this is a long one.