For the Love of Self-Preservation

“Love is in the air”—or at least, it should be. I’m not talking about the seasonal hype of Valentine’s Day; I’m talking about a daily necessity. In a world that often feels heavy, finding something to love each day isn't just a "nice" idea; it is an act of self-preservation.

Of course, this is easier said than done for those walking through the valley of grief or loss. When the weight is that heavy, seeking help isn’t just vital—it’s the first step toward survival. It brings to mind the standard flight safety briefing: "Place your oxygen mask on before helping others." You are of no help to anyone if you are gasping for air yourself. By refilling your own resources first, you gain the strength to be the peace and love someone else needs when they are weak.

Sometimes, that peace comes from accepting the unknown. When life gives you a "why" that doesn't align with your gut instinct, trying to force the pieces to fit only creates deeper, unhealthy stress. It’s okay to settle for "I may never know" if it saves your sanity.

We must remember that healing isn't a race. We often say that "hurt people, hurt people," but I prefer the inverse: Healed people, heal people.

This is exactly why I feel so called to what we do at Bojo Madeleine Market. I wanted to create a space that provides those "oxygen masks"—the small, tangible things that help us refill our resources. Whether it’s a handwritten note on one of our postcards to bridge the gap with a friend, or a Madeline Island-themed "happy product" that serves as your daily reminder of peace, these aren't just items to me. They are tools for connection and self-care.

If you find yourself needing a little extra "breath" or a reminder to seek the love in each day, I’d love for you to join our community on Facebook and Instagram. We share a bit of that island peace and strength there daily, and I’d be honored to have you walk this path with us.

Love, 

~Patti