Let's Do This Together

I've been honored to be part of the FAA team for a little over a year and a half and in that time I've seen just how powerful the creative arts can be for those recovering from traumatic stress. Many of us know intuitively that making things feels good, and that often times the hardest things cannot be said, only shown. In poetry, painting, improv, and dance, we are responding to the world with beauty, joy, and laughter. This time of year we are reminded that It is better to give than to receive, and this year I'm adding that it is better to create than consume. The gift of creativity is personal and relational, private and communal - a therapeutic aid whenever, wherever applied. This week I'm asking you to help me raise $500 to support our work of reaching trauma survivors with the life giving power of creativity. In that spirit, here is a short poem inviting your creativity and compassion into the world.

Together, Here We Go
If this were a dance floor I'd be welcoming you from your chair,
making space for you in the spotlight where there is no right or wrong way to move

If we were sitting at an open mic I'd write your name on the sign up sheet
because I know you have a voice that brings people to their feet

If we were painting I'd clean your brushes and fetch another canvas,
one as blank as a movie screen waiting to receive your vision of things

If we were somewhere together, anywhere together,
I'd make space you to create something only you can create

Because only you can give the joy you've come to know
with those who need a little hope

Right here, right now is a chance to pass it on,
Give the blessing of beauty, whether it's a little or a lot

Even the smallest gift is a piece of who you are,
and that's more than enough

It's true that giving is better than receiving,
even more true that creating leads to healing

So let's go together, here we go,
giving our little gifts to change a lot