where is your balance?
when the world is loud.
“The world is splitting open. Not the way fruit splits open. The way a secret splits open.” - Jaiya John
If you look around, it’s very clear that this is not your typical holiday season here in America.
We’re watching countless oppressed people lose their lives, their rights, and their homes. Weather is changing rapidly changing across the country. The entertainment industry is frantically catching up from the strike while simultaneously unraveling tragic news after tragic news. There’s purple everywhere.
Yet, if you look around, it’s also very clear that this is still a time of renewal, and growth, too. We’re watching countless Black creators continue to create and build space, nurturing spaces to care and advocate for ourselves and others. Creativity is doing some good across the country, especially on local levels. The entertainment industry is still full of good things - there’s purple everywhere.
I don’t want to pretend like the world is not on fire and I also don’t want to to live life as if there’s nothing to live for. I want to find a balance and I’ve typed out this stream of consciousness because I sincerely hope you find some balance this week.
And you know where I want us to find that balance?
In each other, in community, in our love of culture, in our ability to create, and to resist, and to use our voices to advocate, in our books, in our shared collective creative experiences, in our conversations, in the small tasks we get to carry out.
Instead of trying to suppress whatever you’re feeling right now, I encourage you to share it with those you trust.
here’s to keeping each other grounded,
Melissa, founder of #blkcreatives
Join us tomorrow night on IG Live, Write For Relief Journaling Session at 8:30pm CST
We’ve created our very first journal companion guide, Write for Relief! It’s a 20+ page e-book full of writing prompts inspired by the conversations we’ve hosted that now serve as vehicles to help Black creators improve their overall well-being.
Grab it here and join us this Tuesday (12/12) on Instagram at 8:30pm CST to get a little journaling time in.
Links that Help
WakandaCon, ONE MusicFest and The Culture LP on Taking Ownership Of Our Creativity
Familiar with the story of Mollie Moon and her movement-shifting legacy?
Finding the courage to create.
The Beyoncé Veteran Remaking ‘The Color Purple’ for a New Generation
The Unapologetic Workbook for Black Mental Health is on our wellness book list
We’re so grateful for Mad Keys’ warm jazz joints playlist for the holidays
Thinking of starting a book club next year? take a look at our booklist
Director Cord Jefferson Discusses the Hurdles to Making 'American Fiction'
We believe that reading is a gateway - do you?
Lisa Beasley on creating LinkedIn Park and friendship in our creative process
Until Next Week, Take Care!
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