The Start
Last year, as the pandemic slowed life down and caused us to physically withdraw from one another, I dragged out a cheap chalkboard I’d bought for book shows a few years ago. On it I wrote messages for my neighbors and others who walked past our house, and put it on my front porch.
I hoped to create a sense of camaraderie while we hunkered down. I believe in the power of small things making a difference. If you can’t find anything to make you feel good, be the one thing that makes others feel good. Writing these messages was my way of reaching out to strangers.
My neighbor Tina often ran over to read the sign, and she’d pull the chalkboard out so it could be easily seen.
A year later, I’m still at it. I love seeing people pause to read the sign. Matt the mailman told me the one below made him laugh out loud.
Some days are a challenge
I’ve enjoyed brushing off my calligraphy skills. I also graduated from regular chalk, which doesn’t hold up well, to liquid chalk markers, which come in great colors.
Writing chalkboard messages challenges me to reflect on current politics in a positive way.
I can celebrate the seasons and add a little humor at the same time.
Be the light
January also gave us a new president and the amazing poetry of Amanda Gorman, who read “The Hill We Climb” at the inauguration. There is reason to be hopeful.
I hope to keep sharing messages with neighbors and friends.
Let’s all be the light.