It’s the first day of the new month, and what better opportunity to try something new! Since last year, I’ve been working on a poetry book. And the act of trying to capture the world as it is, right now, has left me somewhat despondent. But I don’t have to tell you how our world is, there are reminders everyday.
Instead, a thought occurred as I was starting to despair about the restlessness, unrest and all ills of our society; I should try to find beauty everyday rather than being consumed by gloom. And that’s exactly what I’ll be doing from now on, finding beauty in an unpredictable world; an exercise I call Project Finding Beauty.
What does these mean? I will be sharing six-word memoirs and photography, every Sunday. Of course, the inspiration is from the famous Ernest Hemingway’s six-word story.
Why don’t I just join other communities, who are already sharing six-word stories or memoirs? I simply want to explore beauty on my terms…
How long will I be embarking on this project? I honestly don’t know. It could be a month, until end of the year or much longer. What I can say right now, I will only share longer prose pieces, when I feel prompted to write in detail about something.
So, in all, this exercise is in keeping with my creative goals of being fully present in whatever I do, I set at the beginning of the year. But it’s also about creating from a place of love instead of fear. <3
But enough about me. I’d also love to hear about you. How are you doing? How is your world, right now? Is finding beauty something that you consciously do or is it a pleasant and surprising encounter? Please do tell!
Lovely post! Those who know my story continue to ask why/ how do I stay smiling and laughing all the time, simply because I choose to. Great day to you & happy August 😁.
It sounds like a wonderful project, Khaya. I shall be here every Sunday, to experience your photos and six-word tales. Also, I hope you link them to the Pantry. They would find a home there and (very likely) spread.
I’ve been a little tired–too many trips to the hospital–but also happy. My garden is doing well, I get the energy to tend it and to write and share words. So, life is good (mostly). 😉
Thank you so much, Tammy. I appreciate you reading. And you’ve got this right, we have to choose to keep smiling, finding beauty and joy, regardless.
Hey Maga, I’m glad you think so. And I appreciate your support always. <3 I shall, and will link to the Pantry.
It's been long since I caught up with your hospital visits...my bad. 🙁 But I'm really happy to hear life is good mostly. Your garden is a delight, things that bloom there inspire.
Keep writing and sharing your words, my friend! The world needs them. <3
Sorry for the delay in response – but you know the delay was due to WP issues (!).
I do want to chime in here and support your efforts on “Project Finding Beauty”. I’m with you – and thanks for the gentle reminder to look beyond what is seen – I look forward to your Sunday posts!
Take care.
Hi Laura, you are never late! 🙂 Thank you so much, I appreciate your support as I try to find beauty. <3
I am also with you on Project Beauty. It is far too easy to see the ills in the world, especially when things happen all at once. My niece died a couple of days ago. I will plant a tree for her this fall, and perennial flowers. I will remember her that way.
Oh dear, Lavinia! Your loss is still so fresh… I don’t have appropriate words to offer comfort, except please accept my sincere condolences. Perennials are so fitting as a way to remember her, for their endurance or having a long life cycle, as I’m sure you’ll carry your niece in your heart always. And of course, they are also fitting for their beauty too. May we continue to find beauty, despite it all!
This is a great idea Khaya! I love this part the most “I simply want to explore beauty on my terms.” I feel the undertone deeply <3
Thanks so much, Kathy. I’m glad you feel the undertone deeply…so much can be said about exploring beauty on one’s own terms. 🙂
A brilliant shift in perspective! I think it’s a wonderful idea. This is something I need to do as the negative seems to swallow me all too easily lately.
I’m so glad you think so, Christina. These two years (with the pandemic, among other things) have been tough for most us. I’ve been feeling like a sponge absorbing everything. I had to shift my perspective. I highly recommend it!