12 Comments
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Feasts and Fables's avatar

It was no surprise to me, of course, but you spoke so much sense, so kindly, in the most considered and considerate way. A fabulous conversation. Keep going, my friend. What an inspiration.

Tiffany Chu's avatar

It was fun hearing more about your navy career, Matthew. I also appreciated the way you pause before answering questions. It's clear you take the time to listen and consider your response.

Both of you and your generosity of spirit are inspiring. It's beautiful how you both mention how much hope you have. I'm so cynical about humanity! I need some of your optimism to rub off on me.

Thank you for this conversation, Eleanor.

Eleanor Anstruther's avatar

Tiffany, it’s such a pleasure. I loved the tempo of Matthew’s answering, too. The quiet contemplation. One of the gifts of these conversations is to meet the rhythm of another. Matthew’s was a steady drum beat. What a privilege.

Matthew Long's avatar

Thanks Tiffany for listening in. Really appreciate you my friend. My practice is to ignore the noise of humanity as a herd and hone in on individual human relationships. That is where our hope exists. This was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen that bond with Eleanor and I was grateful for the opportunity.

Cams Campbell's avatar

This was so enjoyable to listen to. I'd often wondered about your naval career, so thank you for sharing about it so candidly. One question that Eleanor didn't ask—were there books on the sub? Did you read as well as watching movies for relaxation?

Matthew Long's avatar

We had one very small closet filled with paperbacks, maybe around 100 books in total. I read most of them at some point in time or another.

Eleanor Anstruther's avatar

So glad you asked this! It was on the tip of my tongue but kept getting nudged by other questions… !

Susie Mawhinney's avatar

What a wonderful, thoughtful conversation! I can state with absolute sincerity that taking on a pile of ironing in the company of both of you, Matthew and Eleanor, was a far more inspiring and enjoyable hour than I usually spend!

I was fascinated and, like Eleanor, horrified listening to you speak of your time on submarines in the Navy Matthew, no money in the world would entice me to even consider what you so courageously took on!

Thank you both, so much.

Eleanor Anstruther's avatar

Love the image of you ironing and listening. I’m honoured.

Susie Mawhinney's avatar

You're very welcome - let's just say I have become a master of multi-tasking since joining Substack, to accompany ironing you have to be amazing, otherwise it's Netflix/AppleTV or any other offering something to rivet the attention on anything other than shirts!