As someone who runs a product-based business, I’ve often wrestled with the contrast of being both a minimalist and an environmentalist. I don’t believe in excess, but I do believe in surrounding ourselves with well-made things that bring comfort and functionality. That’s why I only create and offer products I truly love.
Growing a small brand isn’t easy, and lately I’ve found myself reflecting on what I truly want to offer the world. The answer that kept rising to the surface—lofty as it may be—was peace.
Peace isn’t something we can buy or sell, but it is something we can cultivate. So as I hand-rolled each candle—yes, every single one is made by me—I said quiet prayers for peace.
I decided to write a short meditation and ritual to accompany each candle and print them on the inside of each label, adding a few hand-drawn touches to make the design more personal. My hope is that lighting this candle becomes a small act of stillness, a way for someone to pause, breathe, and reconnect with their own sense of calm. If that peace ripples outward, even a little, then the candle has done its job.
I’ve also been reflecting on how to live my life with more intention. I’ve committed to cultivating peace in my own life and community. These are just a few items from a list I made to remind myself of how I want to live.
- Begin and end each day with gratitude for both big and small blessings.
- Say “thank you.” Often, and sincerely.
- Tip generously.
- Practice random acts of kindness.
- Acknowledge and kindly greet those I cross paths with—whether it’s the person overseeing the self-checkout line, a neighbor on a walk, or a customer service representative doing their best.
- Recognize the many hands and elements that bring everything into my life—from the soil and seeds to the people who plant, harvest, weave, dye, sew, design, transport, and deliver each item.
- Meditate regularly, bringing peace and harmony to my own body and mind.
- Keep a soft and empathetic heart toward the suffering of others, without shutting down in overwhelm.
- Care for my home, neighborhood, and city as a steward—picking up trash, helping neighbors, and staying engaged in community life.
- Look for ways to give back to the planet and people: composting, creating wildlife havens, donating, or sharing my gifts freely.
- Offer grace—to others for their bad days, and to myself when I fall short of who I aspire to be.
- Strive to be the peace I want to see in the world.
Can the world be changed with a single candle? Perhaps not. But millions of sparks, nurtured in lots of small ways each day—I like to think they can make a difference.
Emma
Owner of Minnie and Moon…and an eternal optimist.