What Actually Stayed With Me This Month

I’ve been focusing on the moments that truly stayed with me this month. The real-life things that really mattered.

Here’s what rose to the top:

1. Two local Q&As that felt human instead of promotional.
Montclair Local and the Rec Room gave me the opportunity to talk about my work and my favorite places in town. I was able to explain the heart of what I do and why healing matters here, in this community.

2. An afternoon at the ballet that hit me right in the soul.
Quadrophenia by The Who — my favorite band — performed as a full ballet. It was wild and emotional in a way I didn’t expect. Hearing music I’ve loved my whole life reimagined onstage made me feel both grounded and cracked open. It reminded me how much art can change the air inside your chest.

3. Watching my best friend bring her new play into the world.
Her reading was sharp, funny, and full of her voice. Being at the reading of this new play reminded me how much I love being around people who make things. It feels good to be in a room where creativity is actually happening.

4. My circle is finding its rhythm.
Every so often, another person drifts in. There are no big announcements, no pressure. It is just a group of people genuinely showing up. It’s growing in this steady, honest way that makes me feel hopeful about community again.

5. The realization that I’m still capable of being surprised.
This month handed me a few unexpected moments. The kind that makes you stop and think, “Okay, maybe something is shifting.” I’m grateful for that.

These are the things that actually stayed with me.

If you want to try your own list, think about the things that didn’t leave you and the experiences that stuck, even quietly. Those are usually the ones worth naming.