Koyaanisqatsi
So what is this word Koyaanisqatsi? It is the Hopi word for unbalanced life. In 1982 I discovered this experimental film directed by Godfrey Reggio. It is a beautiful and disturbing film that everyone should see. Even though it was made such a long time ago it is still relevant.
So why am I sharing this? As an artist I get my inspiration from life around me. I try to live my life in a positive compassionate way believing that like attracts like.
With that said it is hard to ignore what is happening in the world. From climate change to human rights issues to woman's rights. At what point are we as human beings going to stop pointing fingers at other people and start to repair the damage that is and has been done ourselves. Bring our world back into balance.
There are so many things we can do as a collective consciousness to make the world a better place for not only us but our grandchildren and generations to come.
I know it sometimes seems overwhelming. Where do we start? Baby steps. Don't think about politics,gender or religion or skin color.
As one of my favorite people John Trudell said ,"I am just a human being trying to make it in a world that is rapidly losing its understanding of being human."
What can we do? Here are my top 10.
1.~ Be Kind to each other. Love always wins. Little things do matter. Smile at someone you don't know. Tell someone they are beautiful. Do something nice for someone everyday.
2.~ Stop using plastic. No more straws. Take your own bag to the market. Use glass containers. Corporations will follow our lead. Ask restaurants to stop using styrofoam.
3.~ Walk. I know cars are a necessary evil but walk when you can. Its good for the earth and good for you.
4.~ Think for yourself. Do what you will and harm none.
5.~ Pick up garbage whenever you see it. I like to carry a bag with me on my walks with Bella.
6.~ Shop at secondhand stores when you can. Recycle, reuse, repurpose. Landfills are full of clothing & furniture. Be creative.
7.~ Eat whole foods. I know..... This is a tough one. Limiting meat, eating healthy is not only good for you its good for the environment.
8.~ Pay attention to the wilderness. So many species are dying off at an alarming rate. Its up to us to do the right thing for generations after us. Write to our politicians and tell them wilderness is important.
9.~ Talk to each other. Respectfully. Learn from each others differences. Don't judge.
10.~ Breathe and be grateful everyday.
11.~ Okay I lied, One more, Dance. Dance everyday, with people, alone. Dance like no one is watching. And sing. Sing too!
Well, if you made it this far, thank you for listening to my rant. Its been snowing for 3 days and this is what happens when I have free time....
My studio is overflowing right now. Spring is being stubborn and slow in coming here in the Black Hills. David is going to have to build me a bigger space if I don't sell some stuff soon! Ha!
Here's one of my favorites right now. Well there are a couple actually. Lets start with Useful Jenkins & Big Zak , Speak
Another one ~ Old Enough ,Ricky Scaggs and friends
Blessings my friends I am grateful to have you in my life. I'll have new work up on the website shop this week, I promise!