Letting go by the Waters of Okanagan Lake

There’s something profoundly soothing about being by the water, by the Okanagan Lake in Peachland, BC. The gentle ripple of waves kissing the shore, the crisp mountain air, and the soft chatter of nature create a sanctuary for the soul. Add a good book to the mix—say, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson—and you’ve got a recipe for peace with a pinch of sass.

On a cloudy afternoon, I found myself nestled on a cozy blanket near the water’s edge, the soft gray sky stretching endlessly above. The clouds hung low, their reflection rippling across the lake like a watercolor painting. The absence of sunlight made the experience feel even more serene—like the world was wrapped in a quiet, contemplative pause. The book’s unapologetic orange cover stood out against the serene blues and greens of the landscape. Manson’s blunt yet oddly comforting words mirrored the lake’s quiet honesty: life’s too short to sweat the small stuff.

Each page challenged me to rethink priorities, to let go of trivial worries, and to focus on what truly matters. It’s ironic, really—reading a book that teaches you not to care about things you shouldn’t, while surrounded by a setting that makes it impossible to worry about anything at all.

A curious family of ducks waddled nearby, their carefree attitude a live demonstration of Manson’s teachings. A sip of peach iced tea in hand (because, Peachland), I couldn’t help but chuckle at the absurd simplicity of it all. Ducks don’t give a f*ck. Why should I?

By the time the sun began its slow descent, painting the lake in hues of gold and orange, I felt lighter. Not just because of the fresh air or the beautiful scenery, but because I’d given myself permission to let go, even if just for a while.

If you ever need a little perspective—and a lot of peace—grab a book, head to Okanagan Lake, and let the world drift away. Just make sure it’s the kind of book that’s as real as the ducks.