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Dear Friends,
Sometimes it’s hard to know what to say. Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem. Coffeeeee!
Then, the problem is I say way too much. Fortunately, Katy Warner has informed me that there’s a solution to this problem. The Sanctuary website now has a blog where you can read some overflow thoughts.
Though the world confounds me at times, writing about the goings on of the Sanctuary is easy. First off, this month our spotlight is on someone who has given greatly of their time and expertise to the Sanctuary: James Kloor. Thanks James! Artists Katie Belknap and Hannah Hoffman are guiding the creation of a public art piece titled “Foliage of Feelings” on the Sanctuary’s south wall. Read about it below and contribute.
The J St. Regulars Radio Hour continues to grow! Past shows are archived on Facebook. The Paula Jones Band pre-filmed a radio hour on the sunny Sanctuary steps that aired November 5th. Current resident artist Sara Kei performed November 19th. We featured a local legend, poet Jerry Martien, on October 8th, and coming up, we’ll feature two more local poets, Jaqueline Suskin (Dec. 9th) and Tony Wallin-Sato (Dec 18th). I’ll be opening for each poet with music, and there will be an artist making live art each night. We’re excited to add live artists to the show when we can do so in a COVID-safe way. The regular hosts continue, as well as special guest hosts.
The world can feel bleak now. I take regular walks with my oldest friend John Wood, who helps keep me sane and encourages my best craziness. At times, I’m not even sure I know who I am. I had a conversation a few weeks back with Hazel Ra that really helped.
We talked about the sense of self, and how popular culture, gender roles, traditions and other influences have had major impacts on who we believe we are starting from early childhood. And now, trying to understand what’s going on in our minds, we’re in the process of identifying those influences as things that are outside our true selves. We both agreed the process can be scary. What’s left? Who am I, if not all these things I’ve imagined I am? Hazel told me something that’s helped me, it might help you. It’s a truth to hang on to: Cause and effect is real. (I’d be happy to debate this, by the way).
I try to remember that my actions matter, down to the smallest. It is a true blessing to feel the sense of caring that exists in this community, to see that the world matters to people around me. You inspire me. Keep it up! Thank you.
Finally, Katy Warner does so much around that I must say thanks! And Natalie Williams is a positive force for good always. Following her great example, I’d love to write back to anyone who writes me here, at James Zeller, 1301 J Street, Arcata, CA. 95521. I'll be happy to send anything you send me into a madlibs.
With a smile, a laugh and, just because, love,
James Zeller
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