Hey friends,

This week’s piece leans into that old saying: sometimes you're the bug, sometimes you're the windshield. Came from a conversation with a good friend, Dave. The day wasn’t everything he hoped for and that message about the bug and windshield, it came through the text. And I instantly thought, well, there’s the next newsletter.

And just to be clear, I / we are not out here wishing harm on any actual bugs. It’s simply a reminder that life hands out both kinds of days: the ones that flatten us a bit, and the ones where we feel steady, clear, and in control.

Wherever you are, within that cycle, I hope this edition gives you a little perspective and a little breathing room. You’re allowed to have messy moments. You’re allowed to have powerful ones. Both shape you.

Thanks for reading,
Tim

Life has a pretty solid knack for reminding us that we’re not always in control of the soundtrack. Some days you roll out of bed feeling unstoppable, dialed-in, and ready to take on the world, or the pickleball match, or the bike race or…. And other days… well, other days you’re the bug.

You know those moments, you’re cruising along, flying toward the speeding light, thinking everything is fine, and wham. Something blindsides you, splatters your plans, or humbles you so quickly you don’t know whether to laugh or go take a shower.

A comment. A rejection. A setback. A season of life that simply does not care what you had in mind.

But here’s the part we forget:
Much like, “this too shall pass”, neither role is permanent.

The “bug days” hurt, but they make you human. They force you to slow down, redirect, or rethink. They remind you that cracks don’t mean you’re broken, just that you’ve lived enough to earn some texture, some grit…

And the “windshield days”? Those are the moments you’re strong, steady, and unshakeable. When you’ve got momentum. When you’re clear. When your boundaries are firm, your purpose is loud, and you can finally see the road again. It doesn’t mean everything is perfect, it just means you’re driving your own life instead of being flung around by it.

Breathe.
Step back.
Let yourself feel the sting without assuming the story ends here.

If you’re in a windshield season:
Be grateful.
Stay steady.

And remember that strength doesn’t make you superior, it makes you responsible for how you show up for others.

The truth? Life cycles. And you’re allowed to cycle with it. No shame in having messy chapters. No guilt in celebrating the good ones. Growth comes from learning the rhythm, not pretending every day is a highlight reel.

So next time you feel flattened by life, remember: you won’t stay on the glass forever. And next time you’re soaring with clarity and power, remember: use that strength to steer wisely.

Both roles shape you. Both roles teach you.
Both roles matter.

Where in your life do you currently feel like the bug… and where do you feel like the windshield?
What would it look like to accept both without judgment?

Some days I’m the bug,
some days I’m the glass,
learning from the moments
that knock me on my ass.
Both roles remind me
I’m still moving, still alive,
a little splattered sometimes,
but always ready and on the rise.