Six months. That’s how long it’s been since I’ve posted anything on Tenkara Talk. That was poignantly pointed out to me today by one of my long-time readers. Actually, during that time, dozens of you have written to me asking what’s going on. My digital marketing hero, Seth Godin, always says that if you want to know if you’re a linchpin or not, ask yourself one question: “would they miss you if you were gone?” Apparently, a lot of you did miss me and I am not only flattered, but humbled. And that’s why I feel I owe you an explanation (and, an apology).
Some of you know this already, but I’ve been going through an unpleasant divorce. It’s been pretty tough on me and for a few months–I did not take things well. I also had to sell our old house and find a new one that was close to work, my ex-wife’s house, and my daughter’s school. Anyone in Colorado knows that it’s difficult enough to find a house anywhere, let alone one that meets all three of those criteria. It was no easy task, but I finally found a place. Then, I had to do major renovation before I moved in which required me to live in a hotel for three weeks. On top of everything, my mom found out she had lung cancer. To say the least, it was a very stressful time.
For all the reasons above and more (like taking care of my four-year-old daughter three days a week), I just didn’t have the time nor mental wherewithal to write or do anything creative. I even dropped out of social media for the most part. 2016 will definitely go down as the worst year of my life. It seems I got blindsided from every possible angle. But, now, things have settled down a bit and are looking up. I have learned a lot about myself, life, and now am feeling the strength return to me to write (and maybe even get out on the water).
Any of you who have read my blog for a while know that I’m pretty strict about not posting off-topic or personal stuff–I like to keep it laser focused on tenkara. But in this case, since so many of you have reached out to me, I felt the need to explain myself. You have been loyal to me over the years–some of you have been with me all the way back from 2009 and you deserve not only to know what happened, but also an apology for disappearing. And, I’d also like to give you a heartfelt bow of gratitude. Without you, there wouldn’t be 450 posts, 6,100 comments, and thousands of brilliant ideas exchanged, friendships made, or countless lightbulbs floating over heads. You are the reason Tenkara Talk exists and will keep going. We’ve built something great–together.
So, what’s next? Well, my pledge to you is this: Tenkara Talk is officially back! I’m actually working on a post tonight that I’ll probably put up tomorrow or the next day so be on the lookout for it. That reader I mentioned in the beginning asked if I was just having a dry spell and couldn’t find anything unique to write about anymore. Nothing could be further from the truth. The truth is, I’ve been shackled by the constraints of life. But those shackles are coming off. And now, it’s time for us to get back to the business of building something remarkable. Let’s do this!
Welcome back. Look forward to reading some new blogs from you. TJ
I can’t wait to read the next post, and the many to follow.
Jason did I ask before…but where in Western NY are you from?
Hi Wendy, Orchard Park–about 20 miles south of Buffalo. Then, Boston, NY about 10 minutes from 18-Mile Creek where I could catch some great steelhead. Those were the good-old days.
Glad you’re back and want to wish you and your family all the best with what you’re going through.
Jason, it’s good to have you back. Your product reviews have swayed me to make/not make purchases. Your hints and technique posts have also been helpful in developing my abilities. I am looking forward to seeing more in the future.
I’ve missed your posts and videos. Glad you’re back and I hope it’s smoother sailing for a long time to come.
Your voice has been missed Jason, welcome back.
Jason, my friend. So sorry to hear about your divorce. My first wife of 24+ years died of breast cancer back in 1995. I went through a nasty divorce in 2002. I have 9 kids and raised the last 5 by myself. No one knows what YOU are going through personally. I pray and hope it all works out for you. I don’t know if you believe in a God but i do and may He bless you!
Hang in there Jason. Been there, it’s not easy. We all look forward to your future posts.
Jason so glad you’re back at it. I look forward to reading your posts again and happy you are gaining your strength back. I couldn’t agree with you more about the year. But more importantly, you’re making your way through it.
Sorry to hear of your troubles Jason but I’m glad to see you’re back. Looking forward to new stuff.
Welcome back, Jason. Plenty of river for you to get back to.
Thank you for coming back.
Glad to hear you’re doing well and coming back. This website has been an absolutely incredible resource for me as a new Tenkara angler. Thank you for all the hard work you’ve done. I can’t wait for more!
Welcome back. You have a loyal readership. I’ll be in touch.
Very pleased. Just to be pompous may I recommend “The mind ful path to self compassion . The link between Tenkara & mindfulness is strong for me.
Love & prayers
Mark
West Country
England
No need to apologize and welcome back. Your blog was missed by everyone I’m sure.
Sorry to hear about all your problems. Please stay strong. I think you now need a bit of ‘Tenkara therapy’.
Looking forward to following the blog again. You have been missed.
Kind Regards
David
Cheltenham UK
Glad you are back. I too have been through much of what you going through, it does get better, much better. Looking forward learning more, sharing more and growing more through your posts. And sharing some personal stuff only adds more flavor and dimension.
I pray these significant emotional events are overshadowed by the golden path ahead.
Stay strong knowing so many truly appreciate you yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
You have made a difference in so many lives already, with more to come.
I thank you,
Walt
Sorry to hear about the past 6 months or so. Glad to have you back!
When I get stressed out, I tie flies. You’ve been a major source if inspiration for my discovery of fly fishing and Tenkara. Glad you’re back, but you were never gone.
=]
Welcome back Jason.
Sincerely,
Farmer
Welcome back, Jason – appreciate the update and we are sorry for your troubles. You’ll come thru it ok – fishing by it’s nature is restorative to the soul!
I am so sorry about the burdens you have had to bear this past year or so. But I am happy that you are on your way up. It seems that few tenkara blogs are persisting, especially since FB seems to be the predominant mode of sharing now days. I too have been re-evaluating the status of my blog. Hearing that Tenkara Talk is back on its way up will make my decision easier whether to keep my blog going or not. Welcome back!
Welcome back Jason… Best wishes to you and your family… By the way, there are some very old, helpful, sayings that have survived the test of time such as:
This too shall pass.
The truth will set you free.
There’s plenty of fish in the sea.
…and my favorite…
You can tune a piano, but you can’t tuna fish.
Ok, so maybe the last one isn’t exactly very old, but you gotta admit it’s pretty good. 🙂
I was pleased to see a Tenkara Talk notification in my inbox this morning. Welcome back, Jason!
Jason,
No aplogies necessary. I just hope things get better. My mother in law just passed from stage 4 metasticized cancer. It can be a rough ride. My thoughts are with you and your mom.
Curtis
Welcome back. I understand. I had children too?
Welcome back friend! Wish you the best you can have through this hard time and transition.
jason,i went thru a divorce myself in 1995.was not a good situation,lost a bunch.but since then i worked two and sometimes three jobs and gained back everything plus.my kids were young at the time but now as adults they saw that it wasn`t me who was the bad guy.so trust me as george harrison said,all things must pass.trout season is open here in michigan.when i catch some nice ones will forward pictures. dave
Glad you are back. Keep strong Jason and looking forward to reading some more TenkaraTalk. That” Fresh Catch Gyotaku” found a nice place to hang!
Kirby
Really happy that you are returning to something approaching normal Jason! Please make sure you get back on the rivers and fish!
Jason, you need not apologize to anyone. Most everyone go thru a low time in their life, believe I know. Things will definetly
get better, it just takes some time, more for some, than others. Hang in there, time heals all wounds. I’m glad you’re back
I really enjoy your writings……Jim Ritter.
You can’t keep a good man down!
Glad things are getting better for you. Have enjoyed your posts over the years and certainly missed them the last few months. Hand in there:)
Wow. Glad to have your back. There are lots of us out here who are fans.
Rob
I am glad to see you are back. Your absence created a big void in the Tenkara Universe. As one who has experienced some of the same personal challenges you mentioned, hang in there. There is a rich and rewarding life in your future and things will get better.
Good to see you are back.2016 was similar for me so I can well understand what you went through.All the best to you for now and into the future. Looking forward to your reviews and comments.
Mark,
Edmonton, Alberta ,Canada
Ugh. Deeply saddened to hear about your last year.
I’m glad you are turning the corner and returning to Tenkara Talk. Your insights have been a major part of bringing tenkara and much joy to me and many friends.
Best.
Jason
Welcome back……..It difficult but try to maintain your internal Joy.
Michaela
Sorry to hear about the rough times you’ve been going though. I love your blog and can’t wait for regular posts.
Welcome back and sorry for the tough times you’ve had. Stay strong. We’re all here for you.
I’m glad that you are back. You were missed. Sorry for the tough times you have had to endure. Perhaps working on the site will help soften the pain.
Welcome back, you’ve been missed no doubt!!! Hang in there.
You were missed even though you didn’t hear from me. I got my Iwana from you in Jan 2010 after seeing it mentioned in Lance’s blog. I’m so happy your life is on the upswing. I always love to see what you write about my favorite subject. I hope things will improve for you and your family as time passes.