The Bridge #72
in which we stumble upon the funny fact that things are not always as they seem, for there is more in this world than what meets the eye... isn't that funny?
Hello
& Welcome!
I don’t know about you but with summer on the horizon, I sense excitement in the air and a hopeful optimism. Maybe it’s just whom I’m talking to; I keep hearing others share about the mindful ways they are approaching change in their life, embracing the experience of it, delighting (even when there are unexpected disruptions) in what can be learned.
Anything I’m missing?
Something to Consider
If we see someone who looks different, it’s common enough to believe they will act different too. Because they look weird, they’ll act weird too (we think). It’s a common enough instinct.
Until we get to know them, or someone else who looks like them, we may struggle to understand the range of their behaviors.
It is just as likely, however, someone will act different for reasons invisible as much as visible. It could be they’ve a hidden pain they feel in their heart or in their body, they might have a difference in personality we’re not aware of yet, or something might have happened to them yesterday that we didn’t see. Though they look similar to us in other respects, which naturally puts us at ease, the person might behave completely different. It’s worth looking beyond superficial considerations, lest we misjudge the situation.
Consider also we ourselves might behave differently one day because of a majorly disruptive change or simply because we’re tired and hungry. That “weird thing they do” could become what we do. Wouldn’t that be a surprise?
Something to Enjoy
I first learned of aldn because he’s roommates with my financial advisor’s son. A Gen Z music-maker, aldn released songs direct to online (Spotify & SoundCloud) during the pandemic and quickly racked up millions of listens. Thanks to my financial advisor who made me aware, and now I’m introducing you to the music!
This song’s a duet between aldn and his friend glaive, both now quite famous having played in major concert halls and been signed to labels. They started though in their bedrooms. Musicians of this generation are finding community online, avoiding boredom through collaboration and genre-hopping. Their virtual success is real-life.
What I love most is the clear resonance the music has with its audience. It’s like, we act as if “the youth” don’t get it, and yet we see them freeing themselves from institutional guardrails and finding success.
The “old soul” style of these artists mixed with digital sound has me fascinated, looking with fresh eyes at feelings of break-up. A relationship ends, and we feel — so many things — and we wonder — what was it they said? But it’s over, so we’ll never know. We feel stuck inside our head.
Something to Explore
Resourcing Movements for the Long Haul by Third Wave Fund
Ever wonder what’s the best way to support youth-led grassroots gender justice organizations? No? Well, I’m sharing anyway.
Basically, an organization called Third Wave Fund has supported (via grant funding and technical assistance) some gender justice orgs led by young people to help “grow their power.” After 6 years (2016 - 2022) of support, they interviewed the young people to learn what was the most beneficial sort of support and why.
When the organizations being supported are small organizations doing something relatively radical to help transform society while embedded in communities that are usually under-served by existing institutions… it helps if the grant offered is a long-term commitment.
It also helps if technical support accompanies the financial assistance, or that a relationship-driven approach is taken… that way the team can focus energy on their mission (instead of reporting), and the money given to support capacity building can be thoughtfully used. It’s a trust-first approach.
Want to learn more?
Something to Say
Thanks to all those who read The Bridge and do not respond. I know you are there, and I am powered by your time and attention. Thanks for thinking and reflecting. Thanks for bridging the gap between what I’m saying and what’s real for you, connecting things in your mind and in your heart. Take care!
I'm thinking maybe I really miss it
Reliving memories as I start to scroll
It feels like lately I've been stuck and I can't reach my goals
And I can't get myself out, I've been stuck in a hole
I'm really starting to believe …
I’m missing something.
JPC 😎