Dear future hubster

Dear future hubster, as a person who admittedly has issues in the relevant department, I understand that there are a number of things about commitment that are really, really scary. Most people think that commitments are made once and for all. That, I'm afraid, is a misconception. Two misconceptions, actually. "Once" being the first one. Commitments are not made one sunny day and stay that way. They are not a result of one big effort, like platform diving, one big deep breath, and one brave big jump. The trick with any commitment is that you have to keep making it, otherwise it is but an empty promise you made one sunny day. You may think it's daunting; I think it's liberating. For the important things in my life, I want to make the decision consciously and actively as often as I can. The things and the people I believe in, I stand by, I choose. Continuously. The other misunderstanding is that a commitment is "for all". Of course it's s...

Dear future hubster, when you feel like you'll always be an outsider, an intriguing stranger, a passer-by, the person who comes and goes, remember this. Belonging, although it does take time, doesn't depend on time only. It can, and very often it does happen when you least expect it - just like many other great things in life. The sense of belonging comes to you unexpectedly, and in unusual yet ordinary ways. It's not a flag, it's not a title, it's not a passport. It may be a monthly metro card though. Or a barista who remembers that you're the one who drinks almond latte. The yoga teacher who says "I haven't seen you in a while". The fellow runner who finally smiles back at you on a windy Sunday morning. That first time when you greet "your" subway with a relief, because it will take you home. The sense of belonging is a promise. That it's possible. That you, the outsider, can also be included.  It's an expectation too...