This is a really beautifully written piece, and I admire you for taking the step into this kind of unknown. Like many others here, I have often dreamed of this kind of life too - but the concerns over "what comes next" or "what if . . ." always prevent me.
So you should be immensely proud of yourself already for embracing all of that nonetheless. And I wish you all the luck in the world for whatever is next in store for you and your partner.
Good afternoon George. Thank you so much for taking the time to read the article and for your kind words.
I have to say, deep down, I really am proud, and for once, I’m not ashamed of that feeling. But this has truly been a community effort. I couldn’t have done any of it without the support of friends, family, and the people who’ve stood by us.
It means a lot to hear your encouragement, and I’ll be sure to share your message with my partner as well.
A wonderful read, Dan. As someone who for years has desired to make the jump off the hamster wheel to somewhere I can feel more grounded and me, but has never had the courage, I have the utmost respect for you in doing so. I look forward to following your writing and how this next chapter of your life unfolds. I am sure it will be amazing, whatever direction it takes you in.
I’m not quite sure where this next step will take me, but I share your optimism for what might come from it. It means a lot to know the writing resonates, and I really appreciate you following along.
Hey Dan! I truly feel the ease in this essay cause I did the same moving to a remote island. Unfortunately it turned into a rowdy touristy spot which is one reason why I'm mostly traveling for now. I regularly surf, and also try to find places to skate and scuba dive. I once tried monohull sailing and it was fun too 😁 Really happy landing into your publication and hope to see more!💯
Hi Astrid, I’m glad you found a sense of ease in the article.
This is a new project for me, but I’m hoping to publish weekly and would be delighted to have you along for the journey.
I can’t imagine how hard it must’ve been to feel pushed out of a place you once called home. That kind of change can be heartbreaking, especially when it’s tied to something as personal as your connection to the land and sea.
I hope you find a new place that feels just right again.
It is truly heartbreaking to be honest, but there's nothing I can do except find another place. Good thing is I get to keep my business there while it's booming 😁
Lovely here essay, Dan. I admire you taking the jump to drop your old life to move to the countryside and live a slow, intentional life. I’ve been longing for it myself recently and it’s affirming to understand from your account how much effort it takes—how much of yourself you need to ‘give’ to achieve this. It’s certainly worth pondering.
Glad to hear the noise that’s uprooted from all this is quieting down and you seem to be finding that connection back to yourself and the land. Beautiful stuff.
Good morning, Julius, and thank you for taking the time to comment. It truly means a lot.
A good pondering is always worthwhile, especially when you’re weighing whether the cost of change is worth the reward. It’s difficult to describe the depth of isolation and connection that comes from being this close to nature.
Just this morning on our usual walking loop, my partner and I caught a glimpse of two stags clashing antlers in the heather as the sun came up. We were absolutely spellbound. To experience something so raw and powerful so close to home, it really was one of those out-of-body moments.
Beautiful words and rest is so important for growth. Without rest there is no growth. Growth doesnt have to mean more & bigger- instead it can mean grounding deeper.
This is beautifully written. That was my first thought and as soon as I reached the comments I saw others experiencing the same. Thank you for writing it down.
This was a beautiful reflection. To get a new life, you have to give your old life away, right? But this liminal period, this settling down after the frenzy of movement and emotion, it takes courage as well. I know because I am sitting in my own transitional period. To sit with these reflections, fears, hopes, anxieties, well, that's also part of the process. A huge part of the process actually, because many people get here and believe that they have made a mistake and want to go back. But back to what? The unhappiness, the discontent, the disconnect? Absolutely not! This "place" is uncomfortable but essential.
I am glad I happened upon your musings....I can't wait to see where your courage continues to bring you!
Wonderful musings Lisa. Thank you for your kind words, and I’m glad you’ve joined the journey here.
You put it beautifully, that liminal space really is part of the process, even when it feels uncertain and uncomfortable. Wishing you strength and clarity in your own transition!
This is simply beautiful! Probably the best thing I've read this year to be honest. It's so...pure and beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
This is a really beautifully written piece, and I admire you for taking the step into this kind of unknown. Like many others here, I have often dreamed of this kind of life too - but the concerns over "what comes next" or "what if . . ." always prevent me.
So you should be immensely proud of yourself already for embracing all of that nonetheless. And I wish you all the luck in the world for whatever is next in store for you and your partner.
Good afternoon George. Thank you so much for taking the time to read the article and for your kind words.
I have to say, deep down, I really am proud, and for once, I’m not ashamed of that feeling. But this has truly been a community effort. I couldn’t have done any of it without the support of friends, family, and the people who’ve stood by us.
It means a lot to hear your encouragement, and I’ll be sure to share your message with my partner as well.
“rest is not laziness” those simple words are worth the price of admission. Well done!
A wonderful read, Dan. As someone who for years has desired to make the jump off the hamster wheel to somewhere I can feel more grounded and me, but has never had the courage, I have the utmost respect for you in doing so. I look forward to following your writing and how this next chapter of your life unfolds. I am sure it will be amazing, whatever direction it takes you in.
Hi Giles, thank you for your kind words.
I’m not quite sure where this next step will take me, but I share your optimism for what might come from it. It means a lot to know the writing resonates, and I really appreciate you following along.
Hey Dan! I truly feel the ease in this essay cause I did the same moving to a remote island. Unfortunately it turned into a rowdy touristy spot which is one reason why I'm mostly traveling for now. I regularly surf, and also try to find places to skate and scuba dive. I once tried monohull sailing and it was fun too 😁 Really happy landing into your publication and hope to see more!💯
Hi Astrid, I’m glad you found a sense of ease in the article.
This is a new project for me, but I’m hoping to publish weekly and would be delighted to have you along for the journey.
I can’t imagine how hard it must’ve been to feel pushed out of a place you once called home. That kind of change can be heartbreaking, especially when it’s tied to something as personal as your connection to the land and sea.
I hope you find a new place that feels just right again.
It is truly heartbreaking to be honest, but there's nothing I can do except find another place. Good thing is I get to keep my business there while it's booming 😁
Lovely here essay, Dan. I admire you taking the jump to drop your old life to move to the countryside and live a slow, intentional life. I’ve been longing for it myself recently and it’s affirming to understand from your account how much effort it takes—how much of yourself you need to ‘give’ to achieve this. It’s certainly worth pondering.
Glad to hear the noise that’s uprooted from all this is quieting down and you seem to be finding that connection back to yourself and the land. Beautiful stuff.
Good morning, Julius, and thank you for taking the time to comment. It truly means a lot.
A good pondering is always worthwhile, especially when you’re weighing whether the cost of change is worth the reward. It’s difficult to describe the depth of isolation and connection that comes from being this close to nature.
Just this morning on our usual walking loop, my partner and I caught a glimpse of two stags clashing antlers in the heather as the sun came up. We were absolutely spellbound. To experience something so raw and powerful so close to home, it really was one of those out-of-body moments.
Happy pondering, buddy.
Absolutely love this ♥️
Beautiful words and rest is so important for growth. Without rest there is no growth. Growth doesnt have to mean more & bigger- instead it can mean grounding deeper.
Beautifully written
This is beautifully written. That was my first thought and as soon as I reached the comments I saw others experiencing the same. Thank you for writing it down.
He! I clicked when I read 'highlands'. I stay because of your writing.
Thanks for sharing Dan.
P.S: I want to live someday in the Highlands. Someday.
Hi Alex, you’re more than welcome! The Highlands aren’t going anywhere, so take your time. They’ll be here waiting for you when you’re ready.
Thanks Dan! I will probably be around Scotland this year. Even with Brexit I try to go every couple of years :) Thanks for replying.
This was a beautiful reflection. To get a new life, you have to give your old life away, right? But this liminal period, this settling down after the frenzy of movement and emotion, it takes courage as well. I know because I am sitting in my own transitional period. To sit with these reflections, fears, hopes, anxieties, well, that's also part of the process. A huge part of the process actually, because many people get here and believe that they have made a mistake and want to go back. But back to what? The unhappiness, the discontent, the disconnect? Absolutely not! This "place" is uncomfortable but essential.
I am glad I happened upon your musings....I can't wait to see where your courage continues to bring you!
Wonderful musings Lisa. Thank you for your kind words, and I’m glad you’ve joined the journey here.
You put it beautifully, that liminal space really is part of the process, even when it feels uncertain and uncomfortable. Wishing you strength and clarity in your own transition!
I'm so pleased for you Dan. Your post was a joy to read.
How lovely and true. There is real bravery in being willing to make the sacrifices necessary to devote yourself to your own longing.
This was very lovely to read!
I can’t even express how at home this post made me feel! This was absolutely beautiful, thank you!