In May, I wrote a quick note here so that I could keep up with posting at least once a month. I’ve been writing a lot but I’m in an in-between space with this blog, as I’m not sure where I want to go with it. It’s been such a good friend to me, at times really helping focus my energy somewhere, and yet I turn to it less and less. Perhaps it’s served its purpose.
Tomorrow is the launch party for a book in which I am having a poem published. I’m working up my courage to read at the celebration, as every poet who is included has that opportunity and I think it would be good for me. It’s a little much to call myself a poet, though sometimes I wonder if that’s what I’ve secretly been working towards all along: capturing significant moments in small spaces.
I have two friends who really are accomplished poets, and their work is something different than mine. It’s more cohesive, more knowledgeable, not just about the form but also about all sorts of things. I’m astounded by who and what they include in short lines, the culmination of their life experiences leaking out beautifully from all these corner spaces. I’d like to be that way too, someday.
Back in February, I met a woman with whom I’ve been writing regularly; she’s in Chicago, of my same beloved Gen X. Her writing is stunning, reflective, detailed. The accountability of writing with her has been really wonderful for my own production but also, I’m inspired by what she has to say. It’s a gift.
These days, I am also writing letters. It’s something I’ve always loved but lately I find myself wanting to engage in something that only the intended recipient can share with me. I’m off of social media almost completely, so dismayed am I both at the way it makes me feel and the access it grants unknown people and systems. I know there is good in social media, but I’m not sure it’s very good for me.
Anyway. Here I am, trying to – like so many of us – stay present in the world while simultaneously not letting the many, many concerns of it flatten me. As I seek out news, I also seek out beauty, in my child, in nature, in my relationship, in friends. I hope you’re able to do the same. Joy is still, always, urgent.
The Wandering Introvert 