Why I’m Keeping This Newsletter Free (But You Can Still Buy Me a Coffee)

Not everything of value has to come with a price tag.

I’ve been thinking lately about the many ways we place value on things—especially in the online world.

There’s a lot of talk these days about monetizing your content, building your paid subscriber base, offering exclusive tiers. And don’t get me wrong—there’s nothing inherently wrong with that. Writers, artists, and creators deserve to be paid for their work, 100%. I believe that deeply.

But I also believe in something else: the quiet, generous act of giving without always expecting something in return.

That’s why I’ve decided to keep this newsletter free.

Every post you receive, every moment of reflection, curiosity, or comfort you feel from reading—none of it will be gated or hidden behind a paywall. I want everyone who needs a little dose of wonder to be able to find it, without having to weigh the cost.

That said, this work still takes time. It takes energy and intention and care. And if something I create brings you a moment of light or insight—and you feel moved to support that—you absolutely can.

I’ve set up a Ko-fi page (think of it like a tip jar or a friendly nudge of appreciation). It’s a small, simple way for people to say, “this mattered to me.”

You can “buy me a coffee” for $3 (CAD), like leaving a tip in the jar at a cozy local café, anytime, no pressure at all. Just one cup of symbolic appreciation, sent virtually. You don’t have to—ever—but the option is there, no strings attached.

Why this model?

Because it feels good to me. It feels like the kind of world I want to live in: one where generosity flows in both directions, where art and thoughtfulness are shared freely, and where people support each other in ways that feel genuine and voluntary.

I trust that if my writing is resonating with people, the right kind of support will come—whether that’s in the form of kind comments, shares, replies, or yes, even the occasional coffee.

So, to be clear: This Substack will stay free. No tiers. No locked posts. Just open-hearted writing, available to anyone who might need it.

But if you want to support the work behind the scenes, my Ko-fi is always there. And I’m so grateful either way.

Thanks for being here. You reading this—that means more than you know.

With wonder and warmth,

If this letter found you at the right time, feel free to share it with someone else who might need a little wonder today.

Dose of Wonder is a free publication.
If something here stirred your heart or made you pause — and you’d like to support my work — you can do so for less than the price of a fancy coffee (just $3).
Click the image below or the ‘Support Me’ link at the top of my page (doseofwonder.ca).
Every small contribution helps keep the wonder flowing.

With heartfelt thanks, always.
— Caitlin

P.S. Want to write for Dose of Wonder?

If you're curious about sharing your voice and ideas here as a guest writer, I’d love to hear from you. Your piece will be sent to all my subscribers—and you can cross-post it to your own audience too.

More eyes. More wonder. More connection.

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