The Japanese have a word for making broken things whole again
For embracing the flaws and honoring what is to come
How weak spots can become stronger than before
How missing pieces can be reunited by something beautiful
How what could have (should have) been tossed aside
Can be useful – beautiful – even stronger than it was
April is National Poetry Month, and I am going to spend this month sharing some of my favorite poems and poets, as well as some original poetry of my own. I cannot guarantee something new every day, but a concerted effort will be made. Because words are power. And words strung together create more and more power. And with that power comes inner strength. With that power comes the courage to share our stories. With that power comes more connection, more community, and more power.
Every show I’ve done has revealed something new about myself or about the world. From the power of connection and community, to the beauty of ordinary days, the stage has left me hopeful and free. I’ve played leads and bit parts, I’ve directed and made props and stage managed and ran the sound board. I’ve made the dearest friends in the world. The stage saved me and helped me find a little bit of who I am. Every character I have played has left their mark and every role I’ve had backstage has only made me love the stage more.
Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying it’s hard to be my friend, but instead, I have (some would argue FINALLY) realized I matter and my heart matters. Being the easy friend often made me sad, lonely, and, quite frankly, questioning whether I really had the friendships I thought I did. You know the ones I’m talking about: the friendships that matter–that come from a place of risk and trust and vulnerability that cannot happen in a vaccuum or in isolation.
