By Ximena Collado—

It’s the start of a new year.
This issue has me thinking about new beginnings. Beginnings can be exciting and scary. How do you know when it’s time to start something new? Not everyone has the privilege of starting something new by choice, but for those fortunate enough who do, how can they know?

Enthusiasm toward the desired change must be greater than the comfort of staying where you are now. Comfort can be a beautiful place, but when it starts to quiet your curiosity, it may no longer be serving you. Enthusiasm, on the other hand, carries movement. It propels you forward.

But enthusiasm is not always comfortable. One of the ideas I return to often, inspired by the semiological approach of Alfonso Ruiz Soto, is that what is true is not always what is easy. Real enthusiasm does not necessarily feel light or effortless. It can coexist with fear. It can appear alongside grief for what is being left behind. It can even exist without the approval or understanding of those around you.

And yet, it remains.That persistence is what differentiates enthusiasm from impulse or passing emotion. An impulse burns fast and disappears just as quickly. Semiological enthusiasm stays. It returns quietly, again and again, even when doubt is present. Even when the path is unclear. Even when staying where you are would be simpler.

Enthusiasm is not a promise of ease or success. What it offers instead is direction. It functions as a compass, not a map. It doesn’t explain every step, but it consistently points somewhere meaningful.

So how do you know what to start? Follow what genuinely enthuses you—not only what excites you in the moment, but what continues to call your attention over time. Follow what feels alive, even if it feels inconvenient. Often, clarity does not come before movement. It comes after the first small step, once you allow yourself to begin.

Thank you tosome of the people who have helped me and opened their doors to me with this new project.

Roger Jones, our dear family friend, who always takes the time to welcome us at his breakfast table at his beautiful boutique hotel, Casa Angelitos.

Susana Alonso, an incredible glass artist with whom I spent hours talking at her studio and who made me feel completely at home.

Mike Solof, one of our incredible writers, who simply brings me so much joy.

To everyone who is reading this issue and who read the previous one, thank you. I wish you a beautiful start to 2026.Let’s start this Year of the Horse with strength, fire, and enthusiasm.

See you in February,
Ximena Collado