Join Ian Stewart, a Portland-based writer known for his short story collection 'Bittersweet,' and Melissa Earley, a United Methodist pastor and creative spirit from Leadville, Colorado. Ian shares his battle to quit smoking, uncovering the mix of joy and regret tied to his addiction. Meanwhile, Melissa recounts her transformative solo vacation to Guatemala post-divorce, navigating feelings of nostalgia and independence. Both stories highlight resilience, reflecting on personal challenges and adventures in the face of change.
Ian Stewart's struggle to quit smoking illustrates how reframing setbacks as learning experiences can lead to personal empowerment and success.
Melissa Earley's post-divorce adventure reveals the importance of accepting one's limitations and finding balance between bravery and vulnerability in life.
Deep dives
The Power of Quitting
Quitting can sometimes bring clarity and relief, as illustrated by Ian Stewart's experience with smoking. He reflects on the mental battle he faced during his attempts to quit, viewing each tally on his quit board as a testament to his daily victories against cravings. Although frustration set in after a relapse, he ultimately reframes his journey, recognizing that every day without a cigarette was a personal achievement. This shift in perspective empowered him to begin anew, eventually leading to a long period of success with quitting.
Embracing Change and Acknowledging Limits
Melissa Early shares her transformative solo trip that followed her divorce, where she confronted both her adventurous spirit and her physical limitations. While attempting a caving adventure with much younger travelers, she felt out of place and overwhelmed, particularly when she got injured. This experience prompted a critical realization about the reality of aging and the fragility that comes with it, forcing her to re-evaluate her past adventurous self and adjust her travel expectations. Recognizing her vulnerabilities has allowed her to find a new balance between being brave and accepting her limits.
Learning from Experience
Both Ian and Melissa's stories highlight the importance of reflecting on past habits and experiences to foster personal growth. Ian's journey with quitting smoking demonstrates that setbacks can be reframed as valuable lessons rather than failures. Similarly, Melissa's acknowledgment of her changing preferences reveals the wisdom gained through her life experiences. Embracing the lessons from both success and struggle enables a deeper understanding of oneself, ultimately leading to more authentic decisions in life.