from making paper lanterns to finding my way home
from card games to paper lanterns to letting go. Sigh😮💨
I’m a big believer in the philosophy of getting lost to get found because the most beautiful destination happens without a map.
What do I mean?
On August 24th, a friend dragged me out with her. Emphasis on the word “dragged” because I’d rather be dancing in front of my mirror when no one’s watching than leave my room or, even worse, my house. On a Saturday, for that matter, you gotta be kidding me!!!
In hindsight, I would never have imagined I would have enjoyed it that much, even far more than this friend. What started out as a break-the-ice session via a game of cards as we all sat beside a lake. I had no idea this game would ultimately help my friend and I know each other far beyond the “how are you” and “I’m good” friendship.
Everyone around us was also involved in playing the same card game with their friends, family, or spouse. It felt like we were all connected, and we all felt safe. No matter how hard anyone tried, it was entirely difficult not to get vulnerable with the questions the cards revealed.
Writing
Next up, it was time to write stuff on the piece of paper that would sit on the lantern stand. After being placed in such an emotional state thanks to the card game, it made pouring our hearts on the page easier. I didn’t have to do much soul-searching to know what I would write or draw.
Paper Lantern
Between July 29th and August 5th, I decided it was time to come home. When I really started to learn to stop giving a fuck about what the next person thinks. It’s like learning to walk. I’m still crawling, but it won’t be long before I walk. April was the month I moved to a new place, a place I can finally call home. I didn’t realize how much of myself I suppressed and lost living in the previous places until I moved to my new home.
Letting Go
The toughest part of the day was letting go of the lantern. After placing the paper over the lantern stand and turning on the lights, it was time to place it over the lake and let it go. You mean after bleeding out on the paper, I should toss it to float away?
Hell no!!
I watched how others let go of theirs in tears. As we all watched the lantern swim away, I saw what others wrote and drew. I had many questions because their stories were so deep that I wanted to know more.
After everyone had tossed theirs, I finally let go.
That moment taught me a fundamental life lesson:
Letting go is the bravest thing I can do because it’s not just releasing the lantern, it’s freeing myself.
I’ll leave these pictures and videos of this experience below;
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Was the card game "we're not really strangers?" the red box? I love that game, it's my favorite. I make everyone play with me and it has the same affect each time, walking away knowing each other a little deeper.
Yay! These are beautiful photos.
I remember your notes about attending this event. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I love card games that open up conversations, it’s the best way to learn about someone. Congrats on your new home.