Dear readers,
I am writing to you on an empty stomach. Food, naturally, is on my mind. What’s on your mind?
One squeaking old bus is scratching the street as it approaches the bus stop. The sound should make one wince, in a normal context. 2020 is nothing like that. The buses and scratchy metal noises have become my companion. It is evidence pointing towards life and hope. I know that I am not alone, the bus drivers and many others are with me, however seemingly separate and disconnected we feel, we are stitched together by our shared fabric. We, as ordinary as a rock, when connected and united together, could build mountains that stand the test of time. We share the same dream to grow and expand, to live a meaningful life, to help others, to fall in love, to raise children, to experience beauty, to leave this world a little bit better. Hold on. Do your best to stay afloat. Do not lose hope. We need you.
I came from a country where I am not trusted to vote. I encourage you to vote, with the benefit of the whole world in your mind. America, with its global position, impacts more than lives on American soil.
Any small shifts you are thinking about within your life?
I have been writing short stories daily for the past two weeks. I have been enjoying the process of it. I plan to continue writing them daily. If you want a whimsical short story of less than 300 words before bed, I have put them in the category called “A Short”. They are waiting to share a quiet moment with you. Perhaps they will grant you an escape.
I often forget that my life simply needs to make sense to me. Here is my reminder to all of us, go forth and try, do that thing that scares you the most. And keep trying. Don’t give up, not yet. If you need a permission slip to try and fail, here it is. I give you one. When life is a gamble, bet on yourself.
If you need any reading recommendations, I suggest Lydia Davis. She writes wonderful, witty and bizarre short stories. Discovering her work gave me permission to write short stories that are less than 300 words, which has been creatively fulfilling.
My recent favorite from Lydia Davis, titled “ Head, Heart”.
Heart weeps.
Head tries to help heart.
Head tells heart how it is, again:
You will lose the ones you love. They will all go. But
even the earth will go, someday.
Heart feels better, then.
But the words of head do not remain long in the ears of heart.
Heart is so new to this.
I want them back, says heart.
Head is all heart has.
Help, head. Help heart.
Stay sane. I hope to see you next month. You can reach me by email if you feel lonely or hopeless and need the kindness of a stranger.
I need to do some back exercise. Pain is distracting.
Love,
Xiaoyu
