Fresh Viewpoints

Yes, "this" sucks in so many ways. Folks are sick and dying, are forced to work in unsafe conditions, or have lost their jobs. Many can't pay their rent (or mortgage), buy food and other necessities, and can't find childcare - which only highlights the fact that those without privilege are (and will be) the hardest hit.  Some would argue the very definition of entitlement is freedom (h/t Kenzie Corse).  That, however, is a critical conversation I will save for another day.  

The point I would like to make today is that each of us with privilege, who can shelter at home without repercussions, has the opportunity to embrace all the possibilities (without whining about our lack of freedoms).  Foremost, it is a chance to generate ideas - new ways of being and doing. The tired argument, "this is the way we have always done it," does not work, and to be honest, it never has.

Additionally, if you are waiting for our world to go back to normal - please understand that normalcy never existed.  And even if it had, why would we want to go back?  

Yes, I completely understand the feelings of utter exhaustion that accompanies all of "this." The bone-deep weariness that invades and impedes our desire to be creative, as well as all the good intentions buried beneath our body and mind's demand to hibernate. (Note that collection of blog posts I promised that never got written and my second children's book that was never illustrated or self-published.) 

Nevertheless, I am continuously inspired and motivated by the innovations and forward motion that has come, despite the mental and physical fatigue, as a direct response to the challenges presented by this pandemic and societal unrest.  

Deep Root Center, for example, developed a new distance learning program, which we were able to devise only because our St. Lawrence University Community Based Learning (CBL) students had to volunteer virtually.  We generated a schedule of Google Meet sessions, based on what our in-person and distance learning kids were interested in, then paired DRC members with the CBL facilitators and mentors.

This experiment was so successful we began adding the projects and activities the staff was facilitating in-person at the Center to the virtual schedule.  Up till now, with a couple of exceptions, only our Canton kids and the Distance Learning peeps have taken advantage of the virtual opportunities. Happily, now that we are fully remote, with a schedule of Google Meet and Discord sessions facilitated by DRC staff, our Lawrenceville kids are hopping on board.   

This level of engagement would not have been possible without the innovations that came out of necessity.  Despite not being together in a physical space, we are all enriched.  

History has taught us that forward motion will always be uncomfortable, initially. The path to progress will always be open to those who can think outside the box and embrace (and endure) the growing pains.  

DRC News

DRC has open enrollment throughout the year.   Get in touch if you would like to join our "virtual" world.  This schedule is flexible; we will add Sessions as they are requested.  

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at DRC.  Stay safe!