THE ROOT 9: 12.3

There's something inherently comforting and validating about seeking counsel from those we cherish. The act of opening up, sharing our struggles, and knowing someone with our best interests at heart is listening – that's a powerful cornerstone of any relationship. It strengthens bonds and offers a sense of shared experience.

Yet, have you ever noticed a tendency to weigh external advice more heavily than the whispers of your own intuition? I know I have. Sometimes, the same guidance, when spoken by a loved one, seems to carry more authority than when it originates within.

These moments, when we acknowledge a loved one’s wisdom with "you're right" only to be met with "you already knew that," present a valuable opportunity. They invite us to pause and recognize the inherent wisdom we often possess. It's a chance to elevate the voice within – that gentle nudge, that loving reminder, that call for kindness and grace towards ourselves.

Perhaps these instances are subtle invitations to shift our perspective. Instead of viewing our minds as a source of anxiety or self-criticism, what if we began to see it as a trusted friend? A companion that, more often than we realize, offers guidance rooted in our deepest understanding.

This weekend, as you navigate your thoughts and decisions, consider those moments of acknowledged, yet already-known, advice. Maybe it's a nudge to lean a little more into the wisdom you already hold within.

A Different Kind of Wildlife Encounter: Visiting Rehab Centers

This Saturday, I’m excited about a unique opportunity that came my way: a tour of the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, CA. It's a place anyone can plan a visit to, and a family friend of one of my best friends volunteers there so we are joining for a tour. For those unfamiliar, the Marine Mammal Center is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to the crucial work of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing marine mammals who are found injured, sick, or abandoned.

When thinking of what to write about this week, this sparked a reflection on a common weekend activity for many: a visit to the local zoo, often enjoyed with friends, on a date, or as a family outing. In recent years, there’s been increasing awareness and discussion surrounding the ethical considerations of zoos. Concerns about the confinement of animals in environments that may not fully replicate their natural habitats and potentially disrupt their natural behaviors and social structures have become quite prominent. The story of Kiska, the "world’s loneliest orca," is one that I now can’t erase from my mind after footage of her continuously hitting her head on her tank went viral in 2021. (You can read more about her story here)

Instead of automatically considering a zoo visit for a weekend activity, I encourage you to consider if there are organizations in your local area that focus on the treatment and eventual return of animals to their natural habitats. Some examples include:

There are likely other similar organizations in your community. If a zoo visit has been a consideration, perhaps explore if there is an alternative in your area that also focuses on animal rescue and rehabilitation. It could offer a different and valuable perspective.

Beyond Mesh: Another Way to Elevate the Mary Jane Flat

We’re talking about shoes again this week, this one’s more for the gals.

This year, transitioning outfits into spring, and what appears poised to continue as a more polished alternative to the ubiquitous flip-flop throughout summer, involves a contemporary take on the Mary Jane ballet flat manifesting in mesh, woven, or jelly woven fabrications. I doubt this is new news to you. This has likely populated your social feeds after getting viral attention on TikTok – directed towards high-end iterations, notably from the "quiet luxury" aesthetics of Khaite and Alaïa – though Alaïa's 1st rendition on modernizing the Mary Jane debuted in 2022.

If you’re like me, the longevity of this specific trend might warrant hesitation before investing in a designer version with a substantial price tag. Now, this modern take on the flat is appearing across a more accessible spectrum of brands, from Madewell, to Free People, and, of course, Amazon dupes.

This past week, an alternative method of elevating the flat caught my eye in the office, offering a distinct departure from the prevalent mesh or woven styles while engaging with the broader trend of moving beyond the basic Mary Jane silhouette. My coworker was wearing the “Swan Lake” Jeffrey Campbell flat (unfortunately, it’s almost sold out)

If you’re interested in exploring this lace take on elevating the Mary Jane, here’s a starting point: