| THE EPISTOLARIAN |

In the 1970s, researchers at Princeton conducted a fascinating experiment on human generosity. The premise was simple: strangers were asked to assist with a minor task, taking no more than a minute or two. The study's design cleverly manipulated the participants’ urgency—whether they were in a rush between point A and point B—when asked for help.

The results were both surprising and enlightening: the most generous individuals were not inherently kinder or more altruistic; they were simply the ones who had the time to spare. Our capacity for generosity often hinges on our own availability. Even the most well-intentioned among us may find it hard to be charitable when pressed for time. Writing, like acts of generosity, is a luxury—a gift to ourselves. It’s also about embracing a larger luxury: the spaciousness to slow down, and be open to the unexpected.

In a memorable TED Talk, Rory Sutherland recounted a £6 billion proposal aimed at shaving a mere two minutes off the travel time for regional trains in England. Instead of this marginal gain, Sutherland argued for a more thoughtful approach: enhancing the passenger experience with amenities like free Wi-Fi and more comfortable seating. When we pivot from a fixation on speed to enriching the quality of our journey, the compulsion to rush seems to fade.

As much as I cherish making the most of each day, there’s undeniable value in savoring moments. Arriving fifteen minutes early for a doctor’s appointment, just to sit in the waiting room, might be better than rushing in last minute. As someone perpetually on the go, I often remind myself to practice what I preach. We tend to cram more into our days, but perhaps the true gift lies in carving out space. This week, I invite you to slow down.

Set aside an hour to write a letter, and if you finish in thirty minutes, use the remaining time to do nothing at all. The true luxury lies not in the act of doing but in the space we allow ourselves to simply be. This unhurried presence may not only enrich your own life but also positively impact those around you, as they too might benefit from your newfound sense of spaciousness.

We May Be Happy Yet

In the enduring inscription "We may be happy yet," one finds a timeless optimism that captures the resilient essence of the human spirit. This phrase, etched into history more than 150 years ago, serves as a poignant reminder of our perpetual hope for a better future, regardless of present hardships.

The message is clear: happiness, though sometimes elusive, is always within our grasp, echoing across generations and reaffirming that the pursuit of joy is a constant in the human experience.

Featured Wax Color: La Vie En Rose

La Vie en Rose Pearlescent Wax embodies a blend of symbolism and beauty that makes it a perfect addition to any creative project. The rich pink hue and shimmering pearlescent finish evoke a sense of romantic elegance, capturing the essence of love and affection.

Inspired by the French phrase "La Vie en Rose," which translates to "life in pink" or "seeing life through rose-colored glasses," this wax encapsulates themes of joy and positivity. It reminds us to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments and to approach life with a sense of optimism and cheer. Using La Vie en Rose on your correspondence is a way to share this uplifting spirit with those you care about.

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The Sparrow's Letters: Edith Piaf Unveiled

We unveil the evocative and heartfelt correspondence between the iconic singer and three pivotal men in her life: Dimitri Horn, Marcel Cerdan, and Louis Gerardin. These letters, rich with raw emotion and untold stories, offer a window into Piaf’s soul, revealing her unwavering resilience, deep passions, and the relentless search for happiness amid life's chaos and heartache.

The Art of Wax Seals

The most important course I've created is now available for pre-order.

In this course, you'll learn the art of wax marbling to create stunning, unique patterns, gain proficiency in weaving wax strips for added depth and elegance, and explore UV paints for extraordinary designs that glow under UV light. You'll also delve into the use of bold pigments and embedding figures, pearls, and stones to add layers and depth to your wax seals. The course features self-paced learning, comprehensive modules with detailed instructions, and exclusive access to Kathryn Hastings' personal techniques.

The course will teach you to make swoon-worthy seals, including sprinkle seals. 🌈 ✨

PS: This week on the podcast, we're exploring the letters of the other woman in the photo.

With love,

Kay