A cool, sunlight day. We are in-between storms, as a nor’easter is due to come up the coast this weekend. With luck, the forecast rain, falling over three or four days, will break the drought. The trees and hedges in our yard are filled with birds; perhaps they feel the approaching storm and are sussing out places to shelter.
As so often seems to occur here, after a good start leaf change has slowed way down. Still, here and there a red leaf leaps forward from the greenish canopy, or a tree is in full, if subdued, colour. The past two nights have been cold, and while it may be too late to impact foliage season, there are hints that the change in the weather may yet make a difference.
We took the weather forecast seriously and Jennie brought in the overwintering plants. With help from friends we put up all the storm windows and doors, so we are now winterized. The sun porch requires the most work; it faces north. so this time of year sun porch is a misnomer. There are gaps between the floorboards to let any rain that blows in through the screens pass through; they also allow the north wind in. Still, the porch will be a lovely place to have our morning coffee for another month or so.
I’ve been reading Natalie Goldberg’s recent book, Writing on Empty. It is a lush web of recollection, commentary on our social milieu, and encouragement and advice regarding writing. She writes about her zen practice, writing, teaching, and art making.
The book was mostly written during the pandemic and explores life under threat, as Natalie tries to navigate Covid, chronic cancer, and a country and world unhinged. She, in ways very similar to Rebanks, turns to nature for sanity and soothing, even as she, too, notes the extreme stress the natural world is under. She speaks out against the racism, violence, and hatred she sees around her, while insisting on deepening her relationship and building friendships and community.
I suspect, that for many of us, writing, making music, and creating art often seem sadly insufficient contributions to a world gone mad. Goldberg reminds us that it is easy to underestimate the impact the arts can have over time; That there are reasons the power hungry often go after the arts first.
Our contributions to the conversation may seem small, even inadequate, yet, overtime they can change the course of events in unforeseen ways. So please keep creating!
Please share your thoughts and join the conversation!