What an eventful past week it’s been. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t excited to get out of the country and disconnect for a while.
Privilege has been at the forefront of my mind after this election. I’ve been feeling torn when I noticed myself talking about “disconnecting” or “running away”. I am trying to remember that so many do not have the choice to run away or even take it off for awhile. I frequently take for granted my ability to blend in as a white, female, cisgender, human. I’m so grateful for incredible friends, brilliant professors, and patient mentors who have guided me this far on my journey. I can only hope that in Cape Town I will continue to meet every experience with an open heart and mind. I also plan to continue to try to hold space for others and remember my privilege.
No matter how many videos I watch, articles I read, or pictures I look at I can’t quite figure out how to prepare for this trip. I think I’m finally coming to the conclusion that in order to prepare all I need to do is surrender. Surrender to not knowing, promise to stay present, and look for all of the learning opportunities that are sure to come. I found this slam poetry on youtube and it felt appropriate to put here. I attend slams in Denver weekly(ish) so finding similarities in this country makes it feel a little less intimidating.
4 days till takeoff!