Stretching my Vulnerability + Biomimicry for Dummies

A prototype made from organic materials, substrate and mycelium (the fibers growing underneath mushrooms) created from a 3D printer. Created by Tosca Tehan

Please note that this is an excerpt from my full Whitney French Writes newsletter. You can subscribe to my monthly newsletter HERE to receive these messages directly in your inbox.

I want to do things that I've never done before.

For a number of years, as many of y'all know, I have invested a lot of time and energy and excitement into my writing practice. I have conducted workshops and readings and performances that are meant to help others within the community actualize their truest potential.

My energy lately has been on not only the truest potential of those in my community, but on my own personal potential. What are interesting and challenging things can I pursue to allow me to grow as a person, even if they're challenging or scary? I've been actively trying new things and walking into spaces that fascinated me from afar but I didn't think I had enough knowledge or access to. 

I've been stretching my vulnerability. I'm terrified and addicted to trying new things. I registered for a bio-mycellium workshop just because I think mushrooms (all living plants and species really) have many answers to the questions for the times we're living in. I know there's a unique relationship between human and non-human beings that are often unacknowledged. Although I am drawn to writing science fiction, there's so much magic in discovering connections in the real world too.

This curiosity keeps me sharp. Keeps me asking questions about my practice, my craft, my relationship with humans and other beings I share the planet with. The moment I stop being curious is when depression and anxiety set in. Options feel closed off and I'm left wondering what is the point of even doing all these projects? 

So from one curious mind to the other, what fascinates you lately? What keeps you sharp? It doesn't have to be a biological find, it could be a song, a moment that moves you, a new understanding that may have been with you all along.

As I'm pushing myself further to do new things, I've also been talking (since the October/November 2019 newsletter truthfully) on changing the shape of this newsletter. 

So I turn to you, faithful reader for a quick questionnaire. Don't work, not fancy poll or external link required. All you have to do is hit reply with a number (1-6) on any or all of the things you'd like to see more of in the newsletter. If you've read all the way to the end, then I know you're committed. Options are:

(1) my writing (poems, short stories, articles etc.)

(2) events and announcements

(3) what books I am reading

(4) special offers on upcoming workshops

(5) highlight on people in community I admire

(6) personal stories

Let me know what you want to see more of. Let me know how you're inviting more curiosity into your life. I take your feedback gracefully so you can enjoy our moments more...

Until next time,