JOURNAL

Venice, CA • Established 2012 • Handmade & Created By Matthew Schildkret

Symbolic illustration representing life’s challenges and personal growth

Life often brings us moments that force us to confront our deepest challenges, especially when we lose the people who once anchored us. On the eve of my father’s 76th birthday, I found myself remembering him through a vivid dream — a reminder that even in loss, life continues teaching us through subtle signs of love, growth, and acceptance.

Challenges – Understanding Life, Growth & Inner Work

Being a parent, a partner, or even simply a present human being comes with countless challenges. The rhythm of everyday life — work, home, responsibility — can feel overwhelming. Yet within that pressure lies an invitation to look inward. We are shaped not only by what we experience, but by how we choose to respond to those experiences.

Our parents did the best they could, even if they didn’t always do the deeper emotional work. Now, it becomes our responsibility to unlearn patterns, understand our reactions, and step boldly into the fire of transformation. True healing happens when we stop projecting old wounds and start nurturing self-awareness. Doing the work is never simple, but it is the path to becoming grounded, authentic, and fully alive.

Happy Last Days of Summer.

With Love,

Matthew Schildkret
Founder, Creator, & Humble Guide
Late Sunday Afternoon