One in Many

One the things I really enjoyed about Chicago (now back in Omaha, again since Tuesday night) was the diversity of the people who live in the city area. One of the things that was challenging for me was the almost all black neighborhood that my friend, Betsy's, condo was in. I took a walk one day in the "hood" and discovered how uncomfortable it was for me to be the only white face for the length of the walk - until I got to a Starbucks, that is.... Images of TV movies, crime sitcoms, documentaries, etc. flooded my brain as I walked - especially as I passed groups of young black men. I have never had a negative experience with a black person, hispanic, or any other nationality, really (except for a few rude Frenchmen in Paris); however, it was amazing to me that I was at times feeling fearful, anxious and definitely uncomfortable. I realized the media and Hollywood have played a big part in my brain replaying images in my head - as it was obvious that I wasn't in any danger - it was all imaginary. This is especially disconcerting because I have always considered myself very liberal and definitely not racist. And the feelings were there unbidden - rather embarassingly so. And so it raises the question of the responsibility that the media - in all its forms - news, movies, music, books, artwork, has in its portrayal of people of different races and cultures. And this goes for how it tends to portray males vs females, as well.

On one evening when I was visiting we went to a late night burlesque show called "late night tit bits" (Mom you can stop reading at this point). One of Betsy and Emily's friends was in it and it was mind blowing.... Six women and one man put on a skit about a female dance club and did a series of strip teases (more tease than strip) to popular music. I learned they actually have classes in doing burlesque - who knew? - and it apparently is very empowering and liberating - especially for your inner vamp.... It was funny and entertaining - we got to talk to one of the "stars" after the show and she was thrilled about her ability to be that free and uninhibited. Both Emily and Betsy talked about signing up for a burlesque class some time in the future - as for me - I think it will have to wait for awhile....

Now back in Omaha I have having a few days of rest, Reiki and massage before heading on to Wyoming on Friday am.