I shudder, shudder at the thought. how the fuck do we ever get here my dear Faruk?

We used shame as a tool and built a society that prioritized money over people and environment, and let that blueprint go unchallenged for too long. So now let’s build new blueprints, using tools of compassion.

Fortunately, society *is* transforming. We’re collectively coming to terms that wealth does not produce happiness, fulfillment, or meaningful connection in our lives. The currency of money is being replaced by the currency of well-being and compassion.

I really want to believe that's the truth. I do see some empirical evidence to suggest it's possible we humans can turn this damned bus around! I'm still not holding my breath for us to suddenly rise up, to breach our biases and egos. I want to believe. I SO want to believe!

It’s not hitting mainstream media culture or social networks as clearly yet, but there’s growing pockets of people finding greater spiritual balance in developing themselves and their relationships with others in conscious, intentional and meaningful ways.

Those pockets will soon grow to where they will start touching each other (consensually! 😉), and a cascading watershed moment will happen—possibly triggered by calamity, but my goal with Love First is to unite them & trigger it through love.

As my dear Mom used to say from your mouth to God's ears. But she was an atheist so I'm a little confused LOL. I love your passion as ever and always thank you for being you.

You know you inspired some of my lifelong passion, right? Like, I didn’t climb enthusiastically over six rows of chairs just because you’re a great friend (which you are, tho). I’m extremely grateful for everything you have been bringing to my life all these years, Mols. ❤️

Thank you, Faruk, for writing this to me. I know with certain people. Especially those like you who have defied gravity and flew over rows of chairs to share our first in-person hug! 2005. London. First @ media - Like yesterday. Like 10,000 years. But mostly like yesterday! xo/m

Thank you for paving the way for so many of us to follow, including the tens of thousands who may have no idea who you are yet owe some part of their story to your bravery and passion. Love you! ❤️