Writing is a powerful healing tool. In a lecture discussion I attended some time ago, Abena Busia (2007) recited a poem she wrote entitled “Liberation” that referenced powerful women of African descent that would “laugh beauty into life” in spite of the hardships endured. Of course this reminded me of how God has brought much love and laughter in my life to light over the years, in spite of the “salt tears” that Busia also mentioned in her powerful poem.
A few years ago, I was blessed with the wonderful opportunity to review a story board, soundtrack and rough clips for a major animation project. The directors and producers wanted to be sure that the script portrayed accurate and positive cultural representations of the characters. It was an enjoyable assignment and also one that reminded me of the importance of understanding context and capacity in crafting our personal and collective stories. In scripting your story for 2013, and as 2012 has faded to black, you have the power to release negative thoughts and feelings, re-write your story and represent to win.
Reference:
Busia, A. (2007). Discussion on “Women Writing Africa”, December 14, 2007, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA.
