(OUT-vwy-ehn)

A dutch word for the practice of walking into the wind.

I discovered this Dutch word because I was searching for a word for the experience. I spent 2 years commuting mostly by foot. And within those two years of walking, my most memorable moments were those when the elements seemingly conspired against me.

I remember walking my mile route home from work, late on a Saturday night. Exhausted and deep in my feelings. The wind started picking up, and blowing directly against me and I had to put all of my weight forward to maintain my balance.

There is something about having to fight that energizes me. Whether it be fighting against the wind, fighting against ideas, or against systems. Nothing clarifies what you want more than having to face off for it.