The Year That Was

Plus, a peek at what lies ahead

Today I’d like to recognize Glynis, my newest paid subscriber. I am honored by her belief in and support of my writing. Thank you, Glynis!

I’d also like to say hello to all the new readers who’ve joined over the last month or so, especially since I posted the above photo to Notes, Substack’s new(ish) social media platform. The post spread quickly and took on a life all its own, bringing with it many new subscribers. Welcome! I am grateful to have you here.

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Hi everyone,

Somehow it has already been seven weeks since I last wrote. I certainly didn’t intend for so much time to go by, but life has felt a bit like a perfect storm.

It’s been quite a year, as an understatement. I suspect this is more or less how it’s felt for everyone: big ups, and big downs. Sometimes both at the same time.

In my little world, this year included the launch of paid subscription options on my Substack, making my memoir Born Again available for sale, the sale of our house in California, traveling to Spain to accept a photography award, continuing to struggle with my own mental health, the purchase of an apartment in Italy, the seemingly sudden decline and death of my beloved father-in-law, a family wedding in Scotland, a family wedding in Connecticut, and the U.S. election. 😳

Somewhere in between all that, I attempted to continue publishing semi-regularly here on Substack, while also performing with the Checcoro LGBT choir, and attending months of language school and tutoring as part of my ongoing quest to learn Italian. 🇮🇹

In November, it all just felt like too much, and I knew I needed to take a step back. And I’m glad I did, because it’s been good for me. I feel more rested, more connected to myself, and I’m about as ready as I can be for the year ahead, come what may.

But before 2024 officially slips away from us, I wanted to let you know briefly what lies ahead for this publication, as well as which charities we supported—together—this year!

A Look Ahead

As I peer around the corner at 2025, there are a number of things I’m excited about, including my plan to work with a graphic designer to help “spruce up” the look of my Substack. I don’t really know how long that work will take, but hopefully you’ll start seeing a roll-out of the new look by spring(ish).

As for my writing, one thing I’m going to attempt in the coming year is to write shorter pieces, as some of my posts this year were admittedly a bit long.

I also anticipate that I’ll begin writing more about life as an American in Italy. I’ve been here for over two years now, and I’m ready to talk more about what it’s really been like for me to learn to live in another country. I will, of course, give it to you straight: the good and the bad, il bello e il brutto.

I have quite a few pieces on a variety of topics in various stages of development. Here’s a sneak peek at some of my upcoming posts:

• 52 Drinks — I decided to drink less in 2024. Here I explain why I did it, how it went, and what I’m planning for 2025. (I’m aiming to get this one out in time for those of you participating in Dry January.)

• Take That Step: The Art of Saying Yes — I examine pivotal moments in my life where I had to take the leap out of my comfort zone, and the rewards I reaped for doing so. Life is full of such opportunities for all of us; we just need to pay attention.

• Self-Care in the Age of Trump 2.0 — We’re all in for a wild ride; here are some suggestions for how to stay in the fight without losing your mind or soul in the process.

• My Friend Miko: An Immigrant’s Story — I look back with new eyes at a friendship from years ago.

• There’s No Such Thing as a Self-Made Man — I recognize some of the folks who helped get me to where I am today, and reflect on how much each of us are influenced by others—and how we can pay it forward.

Giving Back—Together

As part of my professional Code of Ethics (found on the About page of my Substack), I pledged to donate 10% of my net Substack subscription income to charity by the end of each year. I’m excited to share the organizations I’ve chosen for this year!

This is only possible because of my paid subscribers, so thank you for supporting my writing! Together, we’ve helped advance three worthy causes this year:

• Quel Raglio del Lago di Como - This is a small farm of “therapy donkeys” located along one of my favorite walks up here at the lake. Their mission is to foster relationships between the donkeys and humans, especially children and people with special needs. Check out their website or Instagram page to learn more about their amazing work.

• HEAL (Haven on Earth Animal League) - This no-kill rescue organization in Florida, USA, is dedicated to finding loving homes for cats and dogs at risk due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. I learned of them from Wendy, one of my earliest paid subscribers, and was happy to support their work. Visit their website to learn more.

• No Time to be Timid - This is one of my favorite podcasts about creativity and the creative life; it was a big influence on me last year when I was working on my book Born Again. Hosted by Tricia Rose Burt, NTTBT recently took home the Silver Award at this fall’s Signal Awards! Tricia wrote in her year-end letter: “I believe the world urgently needs fierce and resilient creative thinkers, who model how creativity and courage can change not only ourselves, but also our world.” I believe that as well, which is why I was happy to support I Will Be Good Productions as they launch Season 4 of this inspiring podcast.

Thank you, again, for coming along on this ride with me. It’s been a remarkable year, and I’m grateful for each of you. Life can be very hard, but it’s such a gift to be here. I hope you feel the same, and I trust you’re ready to embrace 2025 with all you’ve got.

I wish you a very Happy New Year.
Michael

Photos © 2024 Michael TenBrink. All rights reserved.

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PS: If you enjoy my writing and you’d like to support me in this endeavor, thank you! Whether you’re a long-time reader or a first-time visitor, I’m grateful to have you here.

There are many ways you can lend a hand to help me keep doing this work:

• Subscribe to “The Way I See It,” if you haven’t already. It can be done for free, or there are also paid subscription options. You can see full details by clicking on either the “Subscribe now” or “Upgrade to paid” button below.

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