It gives me chills reading Murakami’s book “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.” Every single word he says resonates with my existence, primarily his love affair with solitude and being a loner, despite having a committed relationship with his wife the whole time. It is just magnificent.
Boring Stuff is Invaluable:
“Those kind of memories - unpretentious, commonplace. But for me, they’re all meaningful and valuable.”
Murakami said it beautifully, and I genuinely try to live it every day. I miss simple things, simple memories. I still remember late at night during the last few days in Helsinki. I used to walk and stand near the bridge, close to the sea. I never took a photo there, and I was just so immersed in the experience that I felt at Zen.
I miss those unpretentious, simple memories of standing near the sea, looking at the clear sky, and experiencing Zen. I wish that night. I miss it.
Being a Loner is Not a Bad Thing:
Murakami’s take on not being a team player, being a loner.
“The thing is, I’m not much for team sports. That’s just the way I am. When it comes to a game against someone, the competitive aspect makes me uncomfortable.”
That is precisely why I always played basketball alone growing up. The ball and I felt in sync with each other. Maybe, like how Murakami used running as a metaphor to feel Zen or meditative, I felt the same when I did things alone.
Standout - It is Important to Standout:
I also realized that the most crucial asset in my life is myself and how I create value for myself and others. However, when I do that, it comes with an emotional price; I find myself alone, fighting for my values and the virtues I care for. It makes me stand out, and that is my asset. It is okay to stand out.
“So the fact that I’m me and no one else is one of my greatest assets. Emotional is the price a person has to pay in order to be independent.”
Reading Books:
“I much preferred reading books on my own or concentrating on listening to them over being with someone else. I could always think of things to do myself.”
I'm growing more appreciative of the tactile experience of reading physical books. More frequently now, I choose hard copies over digital versions despite the cost. The joy of scrawling notes in the margins and adorning pages with sticky notes has become a cherished ritual.
This shift reminds me of a poignant statement from someone close to me:
I don't need that much money to spend on myself. Only a small amount will satisfy me. (I need money to buy books and time to read😂.)
I just want to be able to reach out immediately to those who want to help. I would feel happiest if I could spend both time and money on this.
This sentiment resonates deeply with my newfound love for physical books.
The pleasure I derive from this experience is so profound that I'm compelled to share it. If I could, I would gladly gift you the time and the books to enjoy this simple yet enriching pastime.
More book recommendations? read this
If you are building something in the Nordics or Japan, I would love to learn more from you. Please reach out to me at nobody@firstfollowers.co.
Stay weird,
“Nobody”