Hi, Friends!
This week, I’ve been reflecting on how much has changed in four years. I went from being a behind-the-scenes TV exec to fully living my creative life—something I used to pray for every Sunday during hikes in Temescal Canyon (yes, where I saw Saint Anjelica Huston in Lilies!). But more than a job, I was really praying for peace of mind.
Back then, my mind was a flaming mess—constant negative self-talk, feeling unlovable and convinced no one cared about me. Because I believed that, that truly no one cared about myself, I treated myself as if I had no value. I treated my mind and body like dumpster fire, throwing in dirty martinis to fan the flames. And now? I feel content, stable, even freaking happy—which, I’ve learned, can coexist with being in a bad mood (which I still am - often - lol)! Turns out, no one emotion defines me anymore. I accept myself, all of myself, even the parts of me that are still raw and ragged. And saying that brings tears to my eyes 🥹 . I can’t believe those words are true. I never thought that would be the case for me.
But you know who really made all the difference?
You.
Yes, YOU, sitting there reading this (nice hair-cut!). You signed up for this newsletter. You’ve read my books, told me my story mattered, and made me feel less alone. You’ve given all my past pain purpose. Every publisher asked me why I wrote Lilies, and my answer was simple: I wanted you to feel less alone, to be the friend I never had. Thank you for letting me know my mission wasn’t insane.
So, from the bottom of my heart: thank you. Truly, really, with tears in my eyes and warmth in my soul, thank you with every thing I’ve got.
I want to keep bringing you work that lightens our emotional loads, so we’re free to live authentically. And as I think about what’s next, I want to know: How can I help YOU? One-on-one sessions? Group coaching? Retreats? Please help me write my next chapter.
I’d love your feedback through this quick survey—it means the world to me as I plan future offerings. And as a thank you, anyone who fills it out will be entered to win a self-care box full of my favorite things (you know your girl only buys the good stuff 💎).
Thank you again and on Friday I’m going to write to you about how at first I HATED being a self-help author and how now, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Much love and thanks for being here with me,
T$
Thank YOU for writing the book, talking about the things you write about, which is having a positive affect on many human lives, including me, and my daughter who loves you. My wife hasn't read your book but likes you through the osmosis of myself and our daughter!!!!!
DUNN