Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
| (This piece first appeared in TRAILmail edition 16, published on 25 August 2023.)
This is an historic day for me and for TRAIL. It’s the end of something, and the start of something new. Yes, after months (and longer) of rumination, I’ve decided that now is the time to move on from TRAIL. (All considered, reading a small book titled Who Moved My Cheese? was the final nudge. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend you do. Being prepared for change is a skill we all need to develop.) It’s a reality that all things that have a beginning, also have an end. Backstory: For more than a while I’ve been hopeful to find someone to take over ownership of TRAIL. That hasn’t happened (yet), so after much dialogue, both internal and with advisors, I’ve realised that perhaps it’s time to close this chapter of my life and finally let go. Rather than deleting TRAIL’s channels, I’m considering repurposing them to my new direction of focus. My near-future plan is to travel in the tropics and take time out exploring my interest in the natural world and how humans can live in more harmony with the rest of life on Earth. I’ll investigate permaculture, agroforestry, ecosystem restoration, nutrition, wellness, longevity, minimalism, digital nomadism, financial independence, and ethical investing. If those themes interest you, I hope that you’ll stay on this list to be part of that journey. So, barring a falling coconut to the proverbial nut, or some other unlucky moment, or you unsubscribing, this is not the last you’ll hear from me. Give me a few months to regroup. (Before then, there is likely to be a final event promo email coming your way next week.) Some of you, including brands advertising in this final issue, have been along since the beginning – 12 years ago! Whether you’re a reader or advertiser (or both), it’s been a massive privelege to connect with you. You’ve inspired me, challenged me, and helped me become a better person. Often, we shared unforgettable moments, especially those adventures on our magnificent trails in South Africa. There were also a couple of Wow! opportunities to experience other cultures and outlooks internationally which don’t present themselves too often. I’m so grateful for them all. All this happened because of you helping me live my dream to create something of beauty to benefit South Africa’s trail runners. I am hugely grateful for every single reader, subscriber, advertiser, designer, writer, photographer, casual contributor, supplier, and anyone else who had a part in TRAIL’s journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Happy trails forever! Deon Braun Thought For The Moment: “We are social creatures to the inmost centre of our being. The notion that one can begin anything at all from scratch, free from the past, or unindebted to others, could not conceivably be more wrong.” – Karl Popper, philosopher and professor (28 Jul 1902-1994) |
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