Journal

On Quality of Life: Choosing Where We Belong

Life on the island has taught me much about simplicity, authenticity, and the contrast between calm community living and the noise of the modern world. As I prepare to leave, even if only for a while, I reflect on what quality of life truly means — and the choices each of us must make to live in alignment with our deepest values.

Toward Autonomy, Part 5: True Independence

Beyond energy, shelter, food, and water, true self-reliance extends to several other critical aspects that ensure long-term sustainability, resilience, and overall well-being. Achieving true independence means integrating health, waste management, security, skills, community, communication, economic sustainability, and mental resilience into daily life. Each of these elements strengthens the foundation of self-sufficiency, allowing individuals and communities to thrive without reliance on centralized systems.

Toward Autonomy, Part 3: Food

In an age of industrialized agriculture, supply chain vulnerabilities, and rising food costs, many individuals and communities are rediscovering the value of growing their own food. Living off a piece of land—whether a small homestead or a larger communal farm—offers not only food security but also deeper connections to nature, healthier nutrition, and greater self-sufficiency.

While this lifestyle requires dedication and planning, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. By integrating sustainable farming techniques, permaculture principles, and traditional wisdom, a family or community can cultivate a resilient food system that provides year-round nourishment.

Toward Autonomy, Part 1: Energy

This is the first part of a short series based on conversations with ChatGPT, covering the basics of self-reliance, self-sufficiency, and other critical considerations for all of us today — and in the near future. It was inspired by a story about the increasing number of cancelled “renewable energy” projects, totaling many billions of dollars.

In my view, solar and wind are neither lasting nor feasible solutions, given the massive outlay of resources and materials, as well as the costs involved — not just in installation, but in maintenance and eventual replacement. Exposed to the elements year after year, this technology will not even last a human generation. To my knowledge, little to none of their material makeup can be reused or recycled, further exacerbating what I see as a massive financial and environmental fraud — and, at least in part, an industrial cover-up.

We have better options. This discussion explores some of them and further inspired me to address other fundamental human needs. With that in mind, here are some key areas you may want to research further in pursuit of a more resilient and fulfilling life.

State of Reunion

Play more. Laughter, singing, dancing and imaginative abandon is restorative, healing and dispels negativity, emotional pressure and unconscious stagnation.