It has been exactly six weeks since I officially left the federal government and took the first steps towards whatever 2018 (and beyond) will bring. Truth be told, it feels much longer than six weeks. Yes, I’ve been busy with family and all the usual holiday season goings on. I’ve also been working on my documentary film/multimedia installation project about the Saskatchewan Doukhobors. But I’ve also been spending time reflecting on a lot of things. Unstructured reflection to be sure, but trying to take advantage of this rare deceleration period and get into a bit of a different headspace.
As I was digging into my “deep archives”, so to speak, I came across a quote that I first stumbled upon at an art gallery in Nashville almost 10 years ago by Harlem Renaissance artist Aaron Douglas. It struck a real chord with me then (during what was a similar “in-between” period in my life), and it did again reading it today:
“We must let down our buckets into our own souls where joy and pain, mirth and sadness, still flows swift and deep and free, and drink until we are drunk as with an overpowering desire for expression”
I also coincidentally came across an old XKCD comic which seemed equally resonate:
Finally, this gem of a song from Macklemore (featuring – to my honest surprise – Kesha) came up on my Spotify playlist. This really hit home for me:
“Never thought we’d get old, maybe we’re still young
May we always look back and think it was better than it was
Maybe these are the moments
Maybe I’ve been missing what it’s about
Been scared of the future, thinking about the past
While missing out on now
We’ve come so far, I guess I’m proud
And I ain’t worried about the wrinkles around my smile
I’ve got some scars, I’ve been around
I’ve thrown some pain, I’ve seen some things, but I’m here now
Those good old days”
– Good Old Days by Macklemore (feat. Kesha)
As 2017 comes to a close, I wish you all my very best as you pursue your dreams and aspirations for the year to come!
7 replies on “Reflecting”
Thank you Ryan😉…Bright kids just get better you know… not necessarily brighter…but indeed better! Don’t ever stop caring…
Thank YOU for the inspiring words Alison!
Thank you for clenchng your fist for the ones like us
Who are oppressed by the figures of conformity
While I appreciate the sentiment, I think you are far from being counted amongst the oppressed my friend 🙂 Here is to the adventures that 2018 will bring!
‘oppressed’ only figuratively, of course. I have no doubt this is going to be an awesome year for you Ryan. Stay awesome!
I love your ability of expression, Ryan. I may not understand it completely, however I have learned that understanding comes from openmindedness. I will say that I do admire your nature for adventure and taking risks. Not everyone is cut out for it. Having known your grandfather Alf and your parents, you come by this nature honestly. I must say I greatly appreciate your diligence in the historic project to preserve our Doukhobor heritage. It may be your greatest achievement.
Really appreciate that Bryon. Thanks so much for the support and kind words – hope to live up to them!