28/04/2025
Today was a full day. A day of work fellowship with community. The UofL Women's Alumni Council partnered with the West End Women's Collaborative (WEWC) on their Paint Your Legacy initiative. WEWC's mission is to "create and sustain artistic, peaceful spaces in the West End of Louisville." They are a moment and a movement. Check them out if you're local to Lou, KY.
Eleven (11) women came together to paint their own individual brick that will be laid within the Peace Labyrinth at the ELA House, which is an inclusive gathering space focused on the spirit of connection and creativity. Three (3) of us there were members of the Council--my fellow leaders, our Social Media Correspondent, Treasurer & myself as the Chair. The Council's Social Media Correspondent will share the other photos, so if you'd like to see them, follow our Council's page.
I sat with my brick for a bit. Longer than most others. The brick evoked anxiety for me. I am NOT creative. I was the 6 year old kid who (out of insecurity and perfectionism) experienced emotional breakdown for coloring outside of the lines and negotiated with my kindergarten classmate to cut out an apple for me because I couldn't cut precisely (my protection for their steady hand 🤣).
My Council colleague sat beside as I proceeded with offering myself affirmations, self-kindness and compassion; and humor ( ) in preparation for liberation. My inner perfectionist tried to creep out and take over. I had to shut her *arse (y'all know I cuss, but my Momma follows me and she's very cutesy, very demure, very mindful, so...I'm being mindful) DOWN! I took a breath, and I proceeded on.
I made mistakes. It didn't turn out how I wanted, yet it turned out how it wanted, and I love it. I look forward to the notification that my imperfectly perfect brick is placed.
I love my Council. I love my community. I love my city. I love my fellow Council members. I love fellowshipping (with intention). I love my imperfections. I love my flaws. And, I love my brick.
Thank you, Mariel & WEWC, for answering your calling to create spaces to strengthen our community. 💛