Tag books

New Year Brings Reward From a Reader

Reg Spittle Leave a comment


One of the most rewarding experiences that comes with writing is hearing from readers. The new year began with a note from one reader, with a subject line, “Australian in Texas.”

“I just finished Camino Sunrise: Walking With My Shadows, after getting it for Christmas. I’d previously read Trippin’ Through My 60s and thoroughly enjoyed it, so my partner got me your earlier book. I really related to many aspects of your book, and have always found a lot of comfort in the unique type of friendship that comes from long hikes and camping trips…I look forward to reading about your next adventure.”

Last year was another good year for both books as far as new readers go. From 10 countries! I am so thankful to know that people choose to read my stories about five European backpacking treks.

I credit my wife and walking partner Sue for getting me out on the trails and for her work on both books. The titles, covers, artwork, and photographs are hers. Most importantly, her editing has improved them beyond measure.

You may be wondering what the photo has to do with this post. The other day, as I sat at my desk while writing about our latest trek, I looked out the window and this guy was looking over my shoulder. Just five feet away.

No, I did not bring the buck back from California’s John Muir Trail.

You can find Camino Sunrise and Trippin’ Through My 60s on Amazon or click on the titles.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: Care More About Caring Less

Reg Spittle 2 Comments

If you are bothered by Mark Manson’s profanity in his book, he would say you are giving a f*ck about the wrong thing.

In The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, Manson writes, “Wanting a positive experience is a negative experience; accepting a negative experience is a positive experience.”

He describes situations that trap people in the “Feedback Loop from Hell.”

If you care too much about making your life better, you are damaging your mental health. Your thoughts remind you that you don’t have enough money, the best job, or the body you want.

If you worry about being perfect, it leads you to hate yourself and to harbor guilt about who you are.

There is a better way, Manson writes. Care less, or don’t give a f*ck. Focus on what is real, what is now.

Feel like sh*t today? That’s life. It’s OK to feel bad. Don’t hate yourself for it, he says. You will struggle. You will fail. Accept pain. Life will not always be OK.

This does not mean you don’t care. Manson writes that it is all about choosing what to give a f*ck about. Choose your battles. Focus on things you can control.

Millions are paying attention to Manson’s words. He first made his name as a blogger, but is even more famous as an author of this book, which has sold 12 million copies.