What family members are saying....

In Wishcraft, Barbara asks that we create a family of our choosing, and write what they would say to us if we were their family, as a way to see ourselves as others might see us, to be kinder and less shameful of ourselves.

Here is what NYC said to me. Yes, NYC is one of my beloved family members...
***

"You are strong like me. You are my daughter - my friend, my mother.

You did not leave me in my darkest hour, and came right back without fear.

You are an amazon - loving and strong. I opened myself to you and you embraced me. Even giants need a hug, and you always gave a big one.

You are as strong as I.

Come to me, you will always succeed here. You are after all my daughter, my friend, my mother.

Home is here for you. This is your playground."

*****

These words would have never, ever occurred to me to be used to describe myself.

I just do things. and say things to others.

Looking at myself through some of these words, I've gained a new respect, a feeling that I want to get to know this person better. Maybe, be a little less afraid.

[I was at work in NYC on Sept. 11, my birthday. I had emailed friends and family in case I would not make it back. I established a network with my girlfriend's 800 number for people to contact their families (regular phone network service stopped about one half hour after the first attack). I was also on the first ferry scheduled to leave. I could not leave. After looking at my beloved city smoking and the sirens screaming, it truly felt as though I'd be leaving my hurt and broken child behind. So, we got off the ferry and went back to search for ways to help, to try to donate blood and just be there for New York City.

Went back to work the very next day as did all New Yorkers...

For years, I rollerbladed with my growing children, and by myself through every inch of Chelsea, Battery Park and yes, around the Twin Towers... ]

****

MadArt (ist)
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