On September 24, 2025, I celebrated ten years of continuous sobriety from all mind-altering substances. A full decade.

In this episode, I reflect on that journey—alongside the grief, uncertainty, and overwhelm so many of us are navigating right now. From global instability to personal heartbreak, we're living through what therapist and writer Francis Weller calls “the Long Dark.”

I share insights from his newest book, In the Absence of the Ordinay, and explore what it means to drop into the underworld with presence, not panic—to become immense and remember the ancient rhythms of soul.

You'll hear reflections on:

– Deep listening as a practice and spiritual tool

– Collective grief and the disorientation of our times

– Listening without fixing

– Conversations across political and emotional divides

– Tending to your soul through ritual, stillness, and creativity

I also announce the opening of enrollment for Autumn’s Wise Circle—my 5-week small group series beginning October 28. All the details are on my website.

🍂 May this episode offer you grounding, gentleness, and the reminder: you are not alone.

viralmindfulness.com/wise-circle