The Moth Podcast: Resolutions – Episode Summary

Release Date: January 3, 2025

Introduction

In the "Resolutions" episode of The Moth Podcast, host Michelle Jalowski explores the profound impact of quitting and letting go of old habits. Instead of focusing solely on new beginnings, this episode delves into the transformative power of ending behaviors and mindsets that no longer serve us. Through two compelling personal narratives, listeners gain insight into the challenges and triumphs that accompany the journey of resolution.

Ian Stewart: Quitting Smoking – A Battle of Persistence and Reflection

Ian Stewart opens the episode with his heartfelt story about his long-term struggle to quit smoking. Recounting his first and last cigarettes, Ian vividly describes the initial allure and the eventual frustration that comes with dependency.

• The Allure of the First Cigarette
  “It was all love and honey. It tasted good. It felt good on my lips. It melted my brain like chocolate under a hot marshmallow.”
  (00:47)

• Facing Frustration and Shame
  After enduring numerous failed attempts, Ian shares a pivotal moment of self-reflection:
  “I felt like I was letting myself down. Felt like I was breaking a promise, which I was.”
  (03:10)

• The Quit Board Symbolism
  He describes his extensive quit board, initially a symbol of hope that became a source of frustration:
  “Each of those lines represented an entire day of fighting cravings. Cravings that were like a parasite, man.”
  (04:15)

• A Moment of Clarity and Acceptance
  In a turning point, Ian recognizes his cumulative successes rather than his setbacks:
  “That was a collection of successes, a lot of successes. Over 20 a day for 60. Some days felt pretty damn good.”
  (05:00)

• Ongoing Struggles and Acceptance
  Despite still experiencing cravings, Ian embraces his journey:
  “I don't see that necessarily as a failure. That was a collection of successes.”
  (06:30)

Ian's narrative underscores the complexity of overcoming addiction, highlighting the emotional battles and the importance of recognizing incremental victories.

Melissa Early: Embracing Fragility and Bravery Through Travel

Melissa Early shares a poignant story about her first solo trip post-divorce, which becomes a catalyst for personal growth and redefined resolutions.

• A Challenging Adventure
  Melissa recounts her difficult experience in a Guatemalan cave:
  “I'm in water over my head trying to pull myself along with the rope and keep the damn candle lit.”
  (05:50)

• The Accident and Its Aftermath
  A sudden fall leaves her physically injured and emotionally shaken:
  “I am the old lady who fell. I get up slowly. I can walk, but barely.”
  (07:40)

• Realization and Acceptance
  Reflecting on her physical limitations and emotional state, Melissa acknowledges the need for change:
  “I finally admit that my 20 something travel days are over. I am a grown ass woman.”
  (11:15)

• Balancing Fragility and Bravery
  She concludes with a powerful insight into embracing vulnerability while still daring to take risks:
  “I may be single and fragile, but it's still sometimes worth risking crashing again because you can only not get hurt if you don't go anywhere or do anything or love anyone.”
  (12:00)

Melissa's story emphasizes the delicate balance between recognizing one's limits and maintaining the courage to pursue meaningful experiences despite vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The "Resolutions" episode of The Moth Podcast masterfully illustrates that resolutions are not only about starting anew but also about the courage to quit and redefine one's path. Ian Stewart's battle with smoking and Melissa Early's transformative travel experience highlight the nuanced process of letting go and the personal growth that follows. These narratives inspire listeners to reflect on their own lives, encouraging them to embrace both their strengths and their fragility in the pursuit of meaningful change.

Notable Quotes

• “It melted my brain like chocolate under a hot marshmallow.” – Ian Stewart (00:47)
• “I felt like I was letting myself down. Felt like I was breaking a promise, which I was.” – Ian Stewart (03:10)
• “Each of those lines represented an entire day of fighting cravings. Cravings that were like a parasite, man.” – Ian Stewart (04:15)
• “I am the old lady who fell. I get up slowly. I can walk, but barely.” – Melissa Early (07:40)
• “I may be single and fragile, but it's still sometimes worth risking crashing again because you can only not get hurt if you don't go anywhere or do anything or love anyone.” – Melissa Early (12:00)

About the Storytellers

• Ian Stewart is a writer and hobbyist from Portland, Oregon, author of Bittersweet, a collection of short stories. He lives with his soon-to-be wife and their two cats.

• Melissa Early serves as a United Methodist pastor. In 2023, she relocated from the Chicago area to Leadville, Colorado, to focus on writing, hiking, and creativity. She is the pastor of St. George Episcopal Mission and co-founder of Sage Mountain Institute for Writing and Spirituality.

Closing Thoughts

The episode beautifully captures the essence of resolutions beyond mere beginnings, emphasizing the strength found in endings. Listeners are reminded that true change often involves letting go of old habits and embracing new perspectives, fostering both resilience and personal evolution.