As I was getting ready for Tuesday's presentation, I was ironing a dress and all I could see was the "IRON CROTCH" from Willie Cole's exhibit. (warrior-like man covered in iron stencil with one big iron forming the crotch) That day at the Brooks is a fond memory. I was remembering the great food, Doug's friends, and Naoimi, our guide for the Old Forrest Trail. Next time any of you venture to Overton Park, please stop at the Golf House. It is charming and must have been the "IT" in its day, maybe one day we can gather and shoot nine, or simply ride around on the golf carts.
What a wonderful semester. I was glad to read Aaron's entry about the Macon Road presentations. Erin did terrifically Tuesday. I, on the other hand, had a "melt-down!" My presentation was pitiful. I beat myself up for two days...I did the second part first, the first part second, and completely forgot the introduction, the thesis, the premise for the whole damn project! My husband and I practiced, he timed me, I knew the opening line.....I blew-it!!! What's sad about the whole mess is that I knew this stuff hands-down.
What keeps me in this place of personal panic? Some of it is each of you; you're all incredibly bright and well-rounded, kind and funny...the kind of company I like to keep! I am sitting at my desk with the working minutes from the city council meeting, a fund-raising invitation for Janis Fullilove, which incidently came the very next day after the council meeting, the Street Dog rescue stuff from our trek on Main St., Sandra's poetry book and the Elmwood "grave-explain" signs. I have much to say about all of these, but my thoughts simply sit as drafts! I am a poor writer in comparison to each of you and I've found it intimidating. I've had these same poor skills for thirty years. I was afraid of writing then and I'm still as flustered with the process today. BUT, I am going to get better. (hard to get worse) My mechanics are terrible, and I've spent a lifetime avoiding improving. Today, I finally want to improve. Strange isn't it that simply being around each of your talented souls has sparked this women to finally step-up and learn some structure and grammar. Thanks.
I want to be able to go to a conference and present something. I have some very strong interests that I'd like to explore and share; granted they are more on the scientific side but neat stuff none-the-less. This class has inspired me. I'll need your help as to not hide from the work, which I do so effortlessly!
I can't wait to read Lakota Women and view Lyndsey's video. I want to hear more about both Aaron's and Erin's volunteer efforts. There's a great opportunity at the Commercial Appeal for citizen editorial writers that I want to share with you. All of you would be great. You sit on the editorial board for four months, and get to help write about Memphis and her issues. I'm with Aaron, let's continue to post and share here. And with a little effort and help, my babbling just might turn into writing.
Keep in touch.
Do not cut yourself short, Irene. Good writing does not happen over night. I have no room to talk though. This year has been a year of writing and grammar skills and drills. Two years ago I was in really poor shape. I worked around electricians and other tradespersons that require less IQ to do their jobs. These are people that think proper English includes terms like "more gooder" and all adjectives and adverbs start with f***ing. E.g. "That's some f***ing hot steel pouring outta that kiln, Man!" Of course I must have been looked at as a prude, because I tried to maintain decent annunciation. So, don't beat yourself up over it. There is always room for improvement. The hardest part is taking the first step, and it looks to me like you are walking now. Good for you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Aaron...and 'hello' to your beautiful bride!
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