Anyone else setting a record?

Gold medals in insomnia and other thoughts about finding hope in 2025

Hello friends and fellow humans,

Anyone else feel like they might hold the Guinness Book of World Records for greatest number of times listening to Sharon Salzberg’s “When You Can’t Sleep” meditation—or the equivalent? I know I’m not the only one struggling to catch a good night’s sleep right now.

Over chai last week, I told my friend Barb, who is beautifully involved in the recovery community, that I need a sponsor, but not related to drinking. Mostly, someone to call when I fixate on being a perfect parent to my daughter who struggles with serious challenges related to her rare, sizable genetic deletion. Criticism in this area—real or perceived—is my kryptonite. (That and all of the ways she suffers, which I cannot fix.)

Barb looked at me and said, “That’s why you have friends. Just call me.” As I looked back at her warm brown eyes, I felt a greater sense of possibility. It was a much-needed reminder that I’m not here alone trying to figure all of this out. We can help each other just by showing up. Put that on my gravestone (and come hang out with me there). But, ideally, not for a long time.

In the meantime, let’s try to make this thing as good as we can make it. And that includes acknowledging what is difficult, too. You might know my theory about complaining the right amount. Complaining too much can be hard on everyone. But, also, don’t forget to do at least some complaining. Otherwise you're probably not being real.

Here are some things bringing me hope right now:

IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson

This sister/brother duo offers an incredible amount of wisdom about relationships, parenting, career, and living in this new podcast. It’s been boosting my mood to hear their perspectives on building a meaningful life. My favorite episode so far is this one about combatting hopelessness, with cognitive scientist Laurie Santos.

Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life by Maggie Smith

I love a great pep talk, especially about how to be creative yet still go easy on yourself, too. Poet Maggie Smith challenges the advice that writers must write every day and offers so many other ways to engage in the creative process, without rigid mandates. This book is soothing and inspiring at the same time.

What’s Happening Is Not Normal. America Needs an Uprising That Is Not Normal by David Brooks

If you haven’t yet seen this article, it’s very worth reading. My dad forwarded it to me (thank you dad) and we made plans to go to the next rally together. Here’s to saving democracy! We need everyone.

I hope this spring lights up something in you. Or that you just get outside a bit when you can.

Let’s do this (but hopefully this doesn’t entail being awake at 4 a.m. again),

Emma

Ps. I’m considering expanding this newsletter. What do you want more of? Would you read a longer essay length piece? I would love your advice in the comments, or feel free to email me at emma@emmanadler.com.