How does this work? Each newsletter you’ll see one reader’s answer to the previous week’s question. Then you’ll see the question they have for the list, which you can respond to if you’d like. Or you can just read and enjoy.
Previous ask:
What's something that made you proud as a child?
Jenna answers:
I was a fairly naughty kid. I liked to ignore directions for the sake of ignoring directions. But one thing I always did was take my shoes off before entering the house, and line them up neatly by the door. Part of this was because I knew this was a rule you didn’t want to break in my household. But honestly, I also think I did this because it sent a subtle message to my parents: “When I want to be, I can behave and get with the program. But I just don’t want to most of the time.”
Yes, I know that’s pretty messed up. Eventually I became much better behaved. But now when I think back on my shoe antics it helps remind me that I can do things on my own terms. I have control. And that doing something small can help lead to accomplishing bigger things. I also continue to have spotless floors.
Jenna asks:
Do you have “imposter syndrome” about anything?
If you’d like to answer this question, you can simply hit reply to this email and write it in. Be sure to also include a question that you’d like to submit next. And tell us a story — your answer will be the bulk of the next newsletter. We will only use your first name, but if you wish to answer anonymously, let us know.
Bits and Pieces
From time to time, I’ll throw some updates, links, and other thoughts at the bottom of the newsletter.
Many of you reading this are likely getting ready to gather for Thanksgiving with friends and loved ones. I hope you have a safe and nourishing day. I’ll be visiting my parents, who recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. What a feat.
Here’s my daughter looking at photos from the wedding.
They got married in the backyard of their best friend’s house in Philadelphia. If you know them at all, you won’t be surprised that this is what they added to their wedding invite.
“We request your presence, not your presents.” Followed by a call to give a gift to the Philadelphia Resistance.
We spend a lot of time these days, rightly so, worrying about people who become close-minded and reactionary as they’ve aged. The world can feel like it revolves around them. But I want to give a salute to the folks, like my folks, who’ve stayed true to their values as they’ve gotten older.
Who’ve found a way to be more empathetic, more curious, more on the side of justice.
They are out there too, and I’m grateful.
(This is a still of them being interviewed for an episode of the series “Fiasco,” talking about their experiences covering the Iran-Contra affair.)
As I think about getting older, I’ve come to realize: What’s the point of accumulating experience and wisdom if it’s not going to make you more open to the world? What a waste to close down as you grow up.
I’m grateful I have my parents as role models, and I hope you can find people in your life to help you on the path as well.
Talk soon.
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