“We don’t have to wait for some grand utopian future.”— Howard Zinn

Jun 17

*Here’ s to what cannot be taken* | a song from Robin Williamson | L Doctor sketchbook
8” x 8” fine art prints available here

Laurie Doctor Studios stands in solidarity with Black communities, and everyone around this world who is working to dismantle systemic racism and white supremacy. I am taking a vow not to just stand by or retreat to my habitual comforts, but to pause and listen and actively work to remove the blinders that come with racial privilege.

But where do we begin? How do we avoid being overcome by despair at the multitude of problems? The title of this post returns us to the present. It is possible to find direction and create a starting point right where you are.

“We don't have to wait for some grand utopian future. The future is an endless succession of presents, and to live now as we think humans should live, in defiance of all that is bad around us, is itself a marvelous victory.”
— Howard Zinn

There is a resonance between the cultural cycle of order and chaos, ascension and decline, and how to navigate as a maker. By this I mean beginning where you are, with your own uncertainty and discomfort, and being willing to fail. It is easy to give in to being overwhelmed by all the upheaval in the world. I am finding the wisdom in shifting the focus from “saving the world” to doing the work you can do, your work, wherever you are. Retreating into busyness, withdrawal and denial — all of these things require energy that leaves you exhausted. Taking a small step, by looking around at your own community, gives energy to you in return.

It is important to resist the impulse to jump into the next quick thing. Take the time to be still, to enter what Margaret Wheatley calls dwelling mind. Pausing to listen, and seeing where you are called to serve, gives what you do substance and strength. Imagine the divine is calling, that something celestial is behind the whole thing, and hidden within you. This is not about belief, but what Joseph Campbell named “answering the call”, and seeing where it leads you. There is an inner conviction that is free from outcome.

In the most difficult times, joy arises naturally through contemplation and meaningful work. Meaningful work includes showing up for your daily practice of making. The question “How can I serve?” is grounded in the basic goodness of all beings and is a commitment that something is worth doing, regardless of how it turns out. There is a kind of fierce devotion to the Great Mystery that will carry us.

It may be that some little root of the sacred tree still lives. Nourish it then, that it may leaf and bloom and fill with singing birds. — Black Elk

What are your thoughts on “answering a call”? What will you do to make a stand against racism in your home, your church or your community? I’d love to hear from you.

For those of you interested in the next coloring book page, “S”, click here.