Ruth Bader Ginsberg followed in the footsteps of racial equality to change the way the world is for American women. Both still require vigilant attention and ongoing change, but there is hope in this documentary – and the pursuit of a dream.
The Squirrel Story (from The White Stripes album ‘Elephant’, track 10).
When problems overwhelm you and sadness smothers us where do we find the will and the courage to continue? Well the answer may come in the caring voice of a friend. A chance encounter with a book. Or from a personal faith. For Janet, help came from her faith but it also came from a squirrel. Shortly after her divorce, Janet lost her Father. Then her job. She had mounting money problems. Janet not only survived, she worked her way out of despondency and now she says life is good again.
How could this happen? She told me that late on Autumn day when she was at her lowest, she watch a squirrel storing up nuts for the Winter. One at a time he would take them to the nest. And she thought, if that squirrel can take care of himself – so can I. Once I broke my problems into small pieces, I was able to carry them – just like those acorns. One at a time.
What if being different meant you’d never be alone again ?
Imagine…if those of us who felt different could be strengthened in our difference through the sharing of stories….which wouldn’t mean we’d all become the same ….but we might feel less alone in our difference….
(Art by Stormie Mills. ‘Clunk & Jam’ book – a collection of art and stories championing diversity and difference.)
As bush fires rage throughout Australia and news feeds take us live into the tragedy unfolding, its heartbreak and suffering, be mindful of protecting children from the trauma of these scenes. And yourself too. Those affected will need very sensitive care for a very long time to come – and this is already happening through the heartening swell of human kindness that has emerged in response to this tragic time. Keep safe.
There is strength, comfort and hope in art and stories ….
These beautiful image are from a book called ‘The Mysteries of Harris Burdick’ by Chris Van Allsburg. The artist has never been found, nor the stories he wrote about the 14 beautiful drawings (with titles only). They were published as a collection of drawings in the hope that children will be inspired by them – and write their own stories.