Small Actions, Complicated Griefs, and a Little Leg Wrestling
Things You'll Love (v.34)
Hi, I’m Monica. Things You’ll Love is where I share what I’m collecting: books, music, recipes, slow rituals, and minor wonders. Think of it as my kitchen table. You’re always welcome here.
Hey everyone!
Y’all. My laptop was at the shop for several weeks after water spilled on it. 😬 10/10 do not recommend. Thankfully, though, it’s back now. Subsequently, this week’s Things You’ll Love are of the IG variety; I could look through my saved ones easily on my phone and pick out the best for this week.
With love and delight, Monica
Something for whimsy
This creator on IG has a love of pastel— which usually isn’t my fave — but, I adore how they decorate and think about making their home more their own. If you look at their earliest posts, where they were still finding their voice + angle, there are lots of fun and whimsical decor ideas.
Something to read
Dante Stewart is a black, Southern, theologian from Georgia, and he frequently posts essays on IG in a carousel format. This particular short essay discusses the complexities of the multiple griefs each of us is holding these days, the complexity of the systemic oppressions… and importantly, imo, lands on a place of hopefulness and a place of action, not solely contemplation.
Something to spark hope
To me, this feels like one of the actions that Dante Stewart ends on above. A small action that recognizes others’ humanity. The regulations around clothing are absolutely designed to keep people from staying connected with their loved ones and with support.
Something to help you relax
Marbled-edge books being dipped into the marbled paint wasn’t on my bingo card for relaxing, but here we are. The artistry and skill surprised me, even though they shouldn’t have. Plus, it was like ASMR for the eyes.
Something to watch
This conversation with Jon Stewart between an Israeli and a Palestinian is another one that speaks to Dante Stewart’s suggestions for how to show up and be present with nuance and humanity. It’s on the longer side, but worthwhile.
Wildcard - Something to make you laugh
We’ll all miss Stephen Colbert and the humanity and humor he brought to late night (I featured the show finale in an issue a few weeks back). This clip of him and John Krasinski leg wrestling is very… unique.
Enjoy.
My conversation with Alexis Morgan from *The Bad Hand Cast* had to be postponed due to the laptop issue, but we’re hopefully going to speak next week (!) So keep your eyes out for an email about that live getting scheduled.
Have a great week, and let me know in the comments where you found delight or joy this past week.
˜M
If this little collection of things brought you a moment of joy, consider subscribing — free or paid. Paid support helps me keep this table set and the pantry stocked. Either way, I’m glad you’re here.