24 Comments

The last time I had a long flight delay (terminal D, LGA) I spent a long time imagining everything I saw (the seats, rugs, concession counters, planes outside the window) were alive and conscious and working hard--doing their best to make us all feel happy and comfortable. It was really fun!

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Yes, I always build in “margins “ of time on either side of appointments. When I have extra, I feel like I gave myself a gift of a stress free bubble. I try to use that as the gift it is by observing, noting, even stretching. Anything but scrolling my phone! 😵‍💫

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Jun 27, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

I spotted a handwritten note about a year ago, taped to the glass on a busstop: "As you wait for the bus to arrive to head to your destination, you forget that these waiting moments are important too. You will spend half your life at least waiting and trying to get to the next moment. Why is this moment worth less? This is life too." With a slight twist, it inspired this set of pictures: https://www.stuartdejongphotography.com/that-moment

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Jun 28, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

Thanks for your statement about current events not being mentioned in this newsletter. Really appreciate your sensitivity. Also, as a librarian and an avid reader, for me unexpected delays always turn into bonus book reading time. xo

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Jun 27, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

I recently had shoulder surgery and I knew there would be waiting time. There was actually A LOT of waiting. I brought my sketchbook and spent time drawing, we talked with the nurses and totally eavesdropped on other people.

I always take my sketchbook with me, I can write poetry, draw, and doodle. I also practice Tai chi and I sat in the bed practicing mentally for a while. It was calming and kept my mind occupied.

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Jun 28, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

Carry a small sketchbook and draw the scene. That’s some noticing right there mister

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Jun 28, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

This restaurant operates with the motif of the icebreaker this week https://instagram.com/thirdplacebarroom?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

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Jun 28, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

I made a short film about waiting (and not noticing).

Take a look: https://youtu.be/Pn26PdnB58c

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Jul 22, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

Oh, and this is so so great. I'm inspired to creativity and to waiting creatively.

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Jul 22, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

What was it your reader told you about what to do when waiting at stop lights? If I missed it I'm sorry. I'm easily distracted.

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Jul 6, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

You broke my heart! Long Johns Silvers is the best. ;)

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Rob, as usual such a useful newsletter. I like the note about how to spend time in airports. I use the time to pick up books in the bookstore and reading a chapter for a subject I know nothing about. I also use the time to learn a language- and practice one !

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Jun 28, 2022Liked by Rob Walker

I always carry a sketchbook and usually a travel watercolor set, the size of a deck of cards, and a brush with a hollow handle that is filled with water. I have many pictures of planes and people snoozing amid piles of luggage in airports.

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I love this idea! I must admit I can be pretty impatient and feel the same way about people being late, but this gives me a whole new perspective: creative waiting. I'm going to make use of this the next time I have to wait for anything.

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