There's a funny saying in Minnesota. At least, it makes me grin, when in a bitter 40 below wind chill, someone cheerfully says, "at least you're not being stabbed." That Midwestern understatement is often a gentle, wry counterbalance to hyperbole. It's the worst it's ever been, it hurts more than anything, I have to fix everything... sometimes we need to vent. But after too long, that feels like avoiding getting down to business - avoiding doing anything about reality. It isn't all death or rainbows, it just is.
Whenever I'm forced to put things into perspective, it's been good for me. Despite depressing, and at times devastating events in the world, not only am I personally hopeful, but hopeful for the world too.
Our friends and cousins are getting married, growing families and doing good works. I have awesome kids and students in my life. I'm in theater, band, and teaching, while exploring a new career in marketing. James and I host friends and family, which this year included turning the garage into band HQ, birthdays, holidays, Seattle family tours, dogsitting, a slew of games and movies, and a growing collecting of funny hats.
In the world, I try to be careful of hyperbole. I started teaching UU Sunday school this year, which means I get to talk about religion and politics with middle schoolers. I strive to be compassionate, analytical, realistic, positive and open-minded. Anxiety and uncertainty were common themes this fall. We talk about our shared values, how we live them, even when people disagree - even when they act in harmful ways. We talk about what people have done and are doing that's good, hard work to leave the world a better place. Teaching - the kind where I do a lot of listening - has always helped me learn the most.
Some highlights of my 2016:
- Taught theater every week.
- Added to my leaf tattoos, with new leaves for the kids in my life.
- Joined Seattle Shakespeare for a huge fundraiser and volunteered all year.
- Started beginner classes at wushu and taichi.
- Had tea time, walks, talks, meaningful discussions, and community action.
- Played a Jedi Master at a "Star Wars Night" show.
- Toured Seattle with visitors - and with exercise challenges.
- "Organized" the Wiltgen Olympics, and spent time laughing with family and friends.
- Led a parade at a New Orleans-style lakeside wedding.
- Joined costumed characters at "Rogue One" opening night.