Why we make anything
Oh, hi friends!
In my writing workshop a few days ago, a well-known lyricist and director was moderating. He said he’s incredibly busy writing a bunch of projects (he’s 84, btw) — so many that he sometimes forgets which new idea goes with which musical.
And he also said the state of the world over the last few years make you “rethink the reason why this thing [writing] exists. On the one hand it becomes quite ludicrous to write a musical, on the other hand it makes you want to do it better. You rethink the parameters of what makes good writing. You rethink the standard you set for yourself as to what qualifies as a worthy song, as a worthy idea. It has to be more.”
Existing in that space of “this is ludicrous” and “it has to be more” feels right, to me, in this moment. It feels impossible to try to create, but also, if you must (and you must), you have to make it worthwhile.
But you will.
Just by asking the question, trust that you will make it more.
This week, I’ve been reflexively refreshing Twitter and Facebook and Instagram as a sort of comfort tool (that doesn’t work, btw), and I also realized that, depending on who you follow — and this probably isn’t a surprise — these aren’t reliable places to get news or find substantive information. So in the meantime, while I follow/unfollow people and topics, I wanted to direct you to this site, StopPutin.net, rounding up rallies and resources to help support Ukraine in the face of this invasion. Verified sources to follow at the bottom of the page, and a list of places to donate at the top, like the New York-based Razom organization, which was founded in 2013 and is now shipping medical supplies to Ukraine. Every bit and every dollar adds up.
Two Heads Are Better Than One
Thank you so much for filling out Monday’s form and allowing me to kick off this inaugural column (?!) of possible connections. (I will open it back up soon!)
Here are a few Brass Ring Daily readers looking for people to connect with about projects, careers, crafting, and more. Maybe that’s you?
Please get in touch directly through the links and let me know of any positive outcomes! Let’s move forward together.
Do You Know Someone Who…
…is looking for virtual admin assistance? I love organizing people's lives lol. It seems funny to thrive off admin, but for me there's nothing better than clearing out inboxes, answering requests, filing finances, getting posts out on socials. I'd love to take on a few more clients. Contact Jessica!
…is willing to be a mentor for someone who is trying to break into product marketing? If so, please contact Jen!
…builds SquareSpace websites including CSS customizations or WordPress sites? I have ongoing work available. Please contact Ron!
…works in the travel or tourism industries? (I’m working on creating a way to connect travel and tourism providers with new markets, new regions, and new groups of tourists.) Please contact Alex if you know someone!
…would be interested in producing/directing an experimental immersive comedic play in the NYC area? Reach out to Julie!
…makes their living as a songwriter and would be interested in helping a gifted and prolific songwriter (my wife) get started selling her songs with advice or connections or etc? Please contact Jenny if so!
…is offering part-time remote work for a disabled college student? Contact Emily!
…can help my kid prepare for a NYC high school dance audition? If so, email Aransas!
…is looking to join a craft circle and lives north of Boston? I'm organizing a women's craft circle — think a monthly get-together like a book club, but participants bring their own knitting, embroidery, etc. — and would love to have you! Get in touch with Megan!
…who works with data? I have been a data worker and leader in different roles for decades and I’m doing a little interview project to with fellow data workers about roles, skills, and professional community. Do you know someone who might want to reflect and riff for ~45 minutes? If so, contact Rebecca!
…who is a graphic designer based in NYC and specializes in branding and digital content that’s looking for a 4-month long, part-time project? The project’s not finalized, but when it is, it’ll be a quick turnaround to hire so I’m gathering a list of people now! Send your resume and portfolio to Kayla!
…who is a freelance project manager with experience in digital collaboration and production? Same project as above, send your resume and portfolio to Kayla!
...who works as a Project Officer at UNESCO (any office and sector, but preferably Social and Human Sciences)? Please reach out if you do!
…who is a product owner or a scrum master? I have never been one but I am looking into getting my foot in the door. If you know someone, contact Sanela!
(So inspiring seeing all these moves and requests — go get 'em!)
Do you like these daily emails? Please share with a friend!
You can also support my work by checking out my motivational journal, Do It For Yourself, designed to guide you through your creative and work projects, and my upcoming journal Do It Today, which encourages you to find time for the things that matter most to you.
Thanks, as always, for reading.
Love, Kara