Most of the time I find images or textures to underscore some element of a message I want to communicate; today, I searched for a visual that would help give shape to thoughts that fluttered, wafted.
Folding and unfolding. Art and science. Creation and evolution. The ancient East Asian arts often referred to collectively as origami, representing (in part) the ceremonial recognition of things that are held sacred, gifts of good fortune crafted from a then-scarce resource. The irony of the image, in these platforms forged in pixels, isn’t lost on me.
Late fall, this season for releasing and turning inward, has become a bit of an odd time in my world. While I’ve finally learned to honor the rhythms that should have me hibernating, I’ve also accepted that when the temperatures drop, when the air dries and the winds pick up… this is a time when my own energy is alive and charged.
This year, I’m trying to merge those seemingly opposite notions of how to be. I’ve been immersing myself in different elements of the education I need in order to do this work properly. I’m engaging with lovely human beings to strengthen the structural and creative elements of these platforms; they have expertise I don’t. Collaborating with others whose experiences are so like mine, and also so very, very different.
Direct support for survivors of sexual violence, the one-on-one exchanges between me and those who’ve entrusted me with their stories, experiences, selves. Advocacy – not only for the purpose of the #MeToo movement and the work to end sexual assault and abuse, but for the countless ways in which others continue to lead the dismantling of systemic, ingrained oppression.
And, finally, recognizing my obligation to use the written word, this wondrous (I hope I never take it for granted) source of so much of my own power, to accomplish – and to help you accomplish – something that matters.
I’m allowing for all of it. And I’m grateful, so very grateful, that you’re here.
Much love,
Jess
Comments