In Conversation With You…

Whilst chatting to my husband over dinner on Monday evening, he suddenly became very serious and said:  “Gail, didn’t you think to tell me of your plan to picket?”  I responded that I did not tell anyone as I did not want anyone to feel pressurised into embarking on a silent protest with me!  The long and the short of it is – he will be joining me!  Shortly after our discussion, a friend of mine emailed me to say that she is keen to join the picket line.  If you so wish, please  feel free to join us.  I get that this is not an easy thing to do, I would just like to assure everyone that it will be legal and above board – more about date, time and place later.

Tebogo Tengile is currently undergoing his teaching practical training at different schools and as a result we have not been able to record our story exchange. 

Do you ever get that feeling of being totally out of control, everyone and everything is just in a mad crazy rush and to top it all, on a daily basis we have to deal with a world that appears to be so unforgiving, cruel and harsh.

In the midst of the madness, we all need a “little reset”.  I was privileged to attend two events that proved to be just that – “a little reset”!

The first by DANS6T  “Of Dances and Struggles” a dance show presented by Alliance Française of Port Elizabeth, showcasing where dance meets history, identity and resistance. You can see the video on the Facebook link below:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=691418260601946

DANS6T a dance school situated in Tarbes, France introduced the audience to a journey of dance used as an expression of resistance in times of political and socio-economic upheaval and unrest.  One of the most interesting aspects was the encouragement of audience participation.  The audience (mostly young people) identified with the show highlighting various struggles.  I found the whole experience energetic as well passionate and a much needed outlet to express anger, joy, sadness and victory.  I loved the energy and the dance moves – for a brief moment I felt energised and hopeful.

My second “reset” was delightful fun.  Presented by Art on Target, The Drawing Lab is a monthly Saturday morning workshop, and I quote “ where drawing takes on new life.  The experience is made of multiple stations, different experiences and fresh inspiration.  Whether you are a beginner or a pro, this is your space to explore, experiment and express.”  The first lab was on Saturday 30 August from 09:00 to 12:00.  The cost of R50.00 included materials.

I invited a few of my friends to join me.  Good people believe me when I tell you we had so much fun.  I must mention that not one of us claims to be able to draw or paint, however Bretten Ann and her very patient and able assistants encouraged us to be bold and confident and to view the world differently.

We laughed and squealed with delight as we made our way around the various stations trying out new things and stretching our capabilities. 

When the world appears to be frightening and overwhelming as well as strange and hostile, find something that uplifts the spirit and resets how you view the world. I pray you find something that will lift your mood and may peace be your guide.