Guiding Principles

Rooted in the philosophies of Simone Weil and Fyodor Dostoevsky, our principles guide Hike with Cats LLC in fostering clarity, purpose, and connection.

Cultivating Attention & Lucidity

“There are levels to the skill of attention.” — Simone Weil

• We pursue truth through lucidity—the clarity of thought that dispels irrational desires and fears.
• Moderation and courage emerge from this clarity, not from blind conformity.
• We reject homogenization; deep attention and independent thought resist systems of control.
• Constant self-awareness and humility are required—we alone must maintain our standards.

Action as Worship

“Execution is worship.” — Simone Weil & Eric Thomas

• Work is sacred—a spiritual connection to purpose and contribution.
• Participation makes us vessels for good—we engage fully, finding joy in the process.
• We practice three orientations:
  • Love of beauty (connection to the world)
  • Love of neighbor (authentic human connection)
  • Self-transcendence (reaching beyond ourselves through shared experience)

Rejecting Spiritual Impoverishment

“Colonization robs people of culture, participation, and meaning.” — Simone Weil

• We oppose systems that reduce life to consumption and emptiness (screens!!).
• Culture and belonging matter—we create spaces for authentic participation.
• People are ends in themselves, never means to an end.

Moral Discipline & Truth

“Above all, don’t lie to yourself.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky

• Reject all falsehood, especially self-deception.
• Avoid:
  • Reckless speech and intoxication
  • Distracting sensual lust
  • Corrupting love of money
• Active love requires labor—serving others with fortitude.

Active Love & Human Connection

“Strive to love your neighbor actively and constantly.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky

• Love is action, not sentiment.
• Listen without judgment—every interaction is sacred.
• Transcend the self through service and shared purpose.