The final days of the year offer a fine opportunity to look back, assess and ultimately look ahead. In that spirit, I wanted to share “The Best of Solvitur Ambulando 2023,” both the best essays from the newsletter, as well as some of the best insights I encountered this year – and that you may want to check out too.
The Best of Solvitur Ambulando
The Body Issue
On coming to love my not normal body
Walks in Nature
30 Tramps, Saunters, Hikes, Strolls, Jaunts and Rambles
Be Yourself. Be Patient. Be Clear.
Biographer Steven Rabalais reflects on the wisdom of General Fox Conner
Four Infrequently Asked Questions in Becoming a Good Father and a Good Son
My speech at the Father-Son Weekend at St. Paul’s School for Boys
In addition, this year I was interviewed on a few podcasts. I had a blast on them all!
Joy in Preparing for Opportunities that May Never Come
L. Vago of Big Quit Energy Interviews Me About “Silver Medalists”
How to Make Every Day Count
An Interview with Patrick J. McGinnis of FOMOSapiens
How a Heart Defect Affected the Trajectory of My Life
An Interview with Julie Browne of Bold Becoming
The Best I Read, Saw and Listened To in 2023
In no particular order. Articles may be paywalled.
Best Product
Zodiac x Rowing Blazers Super Sea Wolf World Time GMT Watch
My friends Jack Carlson of Rowing Blazers and Eric Wind of Wind Vintage, along with Zodiac Watches, released this marvel too late to be included in this year’s Holiday Gift Guide. Trading Places is one of my favorite movies. The scene when Louis Winthorp, played by Dan Aykroyd, pawns his watch to Bo Diddley, is sheer comedic genius. And now that watch exists! From the Rowing Blazers write-up:
“Inspired by the infamous “Rochefoucauld” from the 1983 Christmas comedy Trading Places: “THE sports watch of the 1980s. It tells time simultaneously in Monte Carlo, Beverly Hills, London, Paris, Rome, and Gstaad!”
With this watch, you’ll be lookin’ good, Billy Ray!
Best Essays and Poetry
JG writes to ask an infinite question.
Sara Campbell eulogizes her wonderful Mom.
Paul Kingsnorth argues the future is religious.
Paul Kingsnorth proclaims a new Patron Saint of England.
Bryan McGrath cries out to God for help, and God answers.
L. Vago examines the genius of the classic slacker film “Friday”.
Amanda Azadian soars through a gut-wrenching medical journey.
Azalea tries to make sense of the abuse she endured from a mentor.
Nicolás Forero navigates distorted space and time following his Mom’s death.
Dennis Lewis surveys Werner Herzog's film biography of his friend Bruce Chatwin.
Lyle McKeany pens a poignant letter to his daughter Em, who has severe cerebral palsy.
Michael Williams ventures to Scotland to find the fabric for his favorite sports coat.
Michael Cirigliano II dedicates his newsletter to melancholy classical music.
Derrick Chiu finds beautiful expression of his full self through his work.
Anthony Pica reflects that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
Best Podcast Episodes
(That I listened to in 2023; may have been released previously.)
Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz: Begins reading the Book of Revelation, my favorite book of the Bible.
The Emerald with John Schrei: The Revolution Will Not Be Psychologized
The Emerald with John Schrei: Snail Juice & Bear Fat & Werewolf Moons
Tyler Cowen of Conversations with Tyler: Celebrating Marginal Revolution’s 20th Anniversary
You may have also noticed some evolution to Solvitur Ambulando this year. You’ll see more in 2024 – I’m thrilled for what’s ahead and I hope you will join me on this beautiful walk!
Fare thee well, 2023! Welcome 2024! Onward!
Image created by Midjourney.