In a social media world that can mimic speaking into the voooid, I’ve become very intentional with what and how much I say. Vastly different from the way I used to engage with said platforms. If you were on early (app that will not be named😂) you’d know a digital footprint rarely crossed our minds, or at least not mine. I simultaneously didn’t think much about the power my words held to build something up or tear something down.

As much as you may want to turn away, we’re witnessing censorship in real-time, further confirming my understanding of the impact language has on us all. It starts with our words, then our art, then our bodies, then then then. I don’t mean to be bleak but toxic positivity won’t really help in these times. Facing our reality is the first step in changing it.

Mindfulness (combined with a sprinkle of trauma) has made me more aware of my surroundings. There’s a running joke that Kendrick Lamar fans assign meaning to every damn thing.

But that level of awareness is crucial in a time like this. “Be still and know…” (Psalm 46:10 KJV) a biblical saying that extends beyond those 4 words, but those 4 words alone hold so much power.

Be Still

I was introduced to ‘Harriet the Spy’ (RIP) a couple years ago and within the first few minutes of the film that little girl gained a fan for life. She reminded me of my childhood self and like so many of us when we’re rookies in the game of life - curious, inquisitive and absorbing everything with fresh eyes. Over time, due to responsibilities and a handful of other external circumstances, it’s easy to lose that gift. Being still becomes an intentional effort where YOU have to find moments to slow down and smell the roses. Look at what’s around you.

And Know

It’s like when people say, “Read in between the lines,” taking a closer look tells you what’s beneath the surface. Where you can find answers, warnings or uncover something new. Harriet became an observer because she dreamed of becoming a writer. Her daily practice included noticing the smallest details, that she stored in her memory and pages of her “private” notebook. It showed her things, it also got her in some trouble. But nonetheless it pieced together her reality, even if at the time they seemed like mundane facts.

Observe with the ability to discern whether it’s worth assigning more meaning to it, because some things are only as big as we make it. But sometimes it really is that deep.

I hope these new collages inspire you to take a moment to pause, you never know what you may uncover.