Folks often ask me where I get the inspiration for my work. Initially, I questioned them, thinking - I just do it. Then I thought maybe I am different. I have always had a very vivid imagination. I have always known I was "special " . However my self esteem was totally deflated when someone commented, "Yes, - 'Special' as in 'Short Bus Special". But I digress.
I'll be honest, I came up in the south, the old south. The part of the country that still thinks the South will rise again and that the 'skirmish' of 1861-1865 was our "Most Recent Unpleasantness". Some find it humorous. But after I went to college (and was out of that safe cocoon all little southern girls are put in) I was thrown into the real world. Not to get on a soapbox, but reality made me find my early years appalling. Since then I hope I am open minded, accepting, and inclusive. At least I try.
All this brings me back to my inspirations. I think with an open mind. Beauty is all around us. My characters are what come to me from a myriad of cultures. Our African friends bring color, joy, music, great food, love, and movement. Our Latino friends bring more color, family, great food, and their heritage. Native Americans bring an understanding of the flora and fauna and how we need to both protect and appreciate Mother Earth. Asians bring ancient culture, discipline, and science. LGBT is nature versus nurture, not a threat to our children. And it goes on. America is the world's melting pot. We are stronger and better due to the many parts that make us. It is my goal to embrace and learn from these cultures.
Those who want to corral this country into a white Christian nation are short sited ed, ignorant, and scared. That thought goes against what made America great. My background is pure Scottish on my father's side and mixed German and Welsh on my mother's side. I do not fear diversity. I embrace it. I am self confident and not threatened by our differences. These different cultures bring wealth to us. We are ignorant not to accept, embrace, and learn from them.
I often feel like a voice crying in the wilderness. This is many words to simply say that my mind is open to all cultures. I draw my inspiration from the wealth of these. I am in awe of those who can make perfect Baklava, express feelings in dance and color, cook for crowds, embrace multi generations, and share ancient knowledge learned from many generations past.
This is what this Great American Experiment is all about. We should not lose site of this.
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