www.reflexbluestocking.org

Even if your hands are shaking
And your faith is broken
Even as the eyes are closing
Do it with a heart wide open
Why?
Say what you need to say
from “Say” by John Mayer

I feel so much better.

It is the theme of almost every new year. Take stock, clean out, reduce waste, and simplify. And it does feel good. Like the cold air that fills your lungs as you walk outside, it brings with it clarity, new energy, and just a little bit of discomfort. It’s a good, if difficult, exercise to clear the obstacles in your path; the things you’ve allowed to clutter your home, your mind, and your heart; to make room for what is to come.

I’ve been reading a wonderful collection of American literature, The Best American Nonrequired Reading 2007 (The Best American Series), edited by Dave Eggers with an introduction by Sufjan Stevens. If you are unfamiliar with the series, the proceeds support Dave Eggers’ young writers program and is actually edited by a group of the writers over the course of the year. Nonetheless, there is a quality about the selections, dare I say a clarity, that is refreshing. I recommend it highly. I imagine Eggers’ group is cleaning out their 2007 periodicals now and starting fresh on what will become the 2008 book.

In line with the theme of simplification, you may notice a new link on the page. It is to The Daily Haiku Project, a creative outlet written by Jon Culver at Auburn. I’ve long been an admirer of the haiku and how it encourages a writer to convey broad thoughts, poems, and narratives in very specific confines of syllables and lines. Give it a try! You might be surprised how liberating haiku can be.

Not unlike simplifying your life, really. Hmm. Deep thoughts.

Welcome to 2008. Please excuse my absence during the holidays. It’s been cold here the past couple of weeks, and the fire in my soul has just about gone out.