Heading into 2020
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Me and my friend Njeri at the Word on the Street Festival
At the end of September, I spoke on a panel for the Word of the Street Festival and I was reluctant to advertise my appearance because I’ve have not the most positive experiences at the event in past. Even the decision to speak was complicated as I was asked by Diaspora Dialogues and unaware of the WOTS affliction. The more I do think type of work within CanLit the more I have to consider, why I am saying yes to this organizer, why am I speaking on this type of panel? But a beautiful thing happened, I reshifted my mindset and realized I was privileged to have a mic in front of me and an audience. And I had something to say. My incredible friend and fellow Afrofuturist Njeri Campbell featured my reading on her YouTube Channel Onyx Pages. So grateful to her for capturing this moment. It was worth it for sure. Click here for the full video or if feel free to fast forward to the 9 minute mark to see yours truly.
End of October beach joint near Lakeshore. It's all breezy weather from here.
The future is looking bright. I have been so incredibly blessed this year (and also incredibly challenged, jeez) but in the end so many opportunities and experiences and good good people have crossed my path. I have to really consider how to stay balanced, especially with working with Dundurn and trying to maintain my community presence. Which begs the question: what this newsletter will look like in 2020? I honour and appreciate those of you who have read every newsletter since 2010 when all I had to share was one (unpaid) spoken word event. And for the new subscribers who’ve come on board with great enthusiasm and insight, so much love. I’m doing a lot of reflecting lately on the beauty of this newsletter, a medium to connect y’all that feels powerful, intimate and sincere. Social media can be great but in earnest, by realist moments of reflection come through in these newsletters. I’ve had coaches tell me I should “sell my product” when I have a following. Or promote my “brand” but I simply want to share what it is I’m doing in the world and appreciate every reply and comment I get back from you loyal readers.
Frenchie harvesting some end-of-season carrots at Black Creek Community Farm. Check out that mid-day sunshine
I know the framing of the newsletter will change as my writing practice and employment offerings change too. I’m excited and nervous but thank you all in advance for your patience and love. After saying goodbye to Writing While Black in my September newsletter, I realized that I haven’t been placing as much focus on my own novel I’m writing. More on that soon.
In the meanwhile, sending all the tender vibes, the cozy tea mug energy your way. Stay grounded and stay connected as winter approaches. Always happy to hear how you’re doing, living, surviving and thriving.
Until next time, Frenchie’s got you