life is like the ocean. waves warp time. the endless blue brings beings deep into places they are not sure they’ll survive, only to be spat out at random. alive still. in water, made of water. water moves matter in ways that we believe it shouldn’t. if we too are water, why can’t we have more agency in how this life plays out? water gives life and brings us each deeper into life. calm waters allow for more control and predictability. storms make pathways incomprehensible, inviting attempts to journey to safety. having arrived at land after facing storms, i wonder - am i fully capable of living into a new orientation to life after what i have learned? what is my north star if i have stable ground? if i find myself at sea again, how will i make a life where food cannot grow? creating connection within a void can become familiar after awhile. searching for land becomes an afterthought, until you see it you can’t believe it’s there. a foundation cannot be guaranteed externally, only internally. a journey cannot be perfectly planned for. a being cannot control every element of their future. and this is what life has taught me, oceanic grit.

the tldr is that as a young child i was initiated into a family made by two very creative caregivers and activists. learning the ways that environmental harm contributed to my fathers passing and my mothers addiction struggles initiated me into a very intimate relationship with grief and introspection. my experiences in life made clear that the world is a cruel place while equally making clear to me that anything is possible here. i wrote every chance i could and i still do. i longed for connections that were transparent and authentic - i still do. i pursued my career with the intention of working at the intersections of public health, government, media, and art - and i still do. after a decade working between sectors and roles i now consult to bridge worlds, help cross pollinate networks, and work in roles that allow me to offer my think tank brain and devotion to initiatives that create lasting change.