Finding Heather
I am working on material that may one day be a one woman show. Or not. I have come to the realization that it does not matter whether it ever actually is completed or performed. It is the writing of it that holds significance.
I have been writing versions of this story for over a decade. It seems important to tell, but as yet I have not found the hook or the arc of the piece. Does it have to be a retelling or is it better to show? Is it a talk or a play? What is the message or point?
There are still no answers to those questions. As I continue to work with writing and performance mentors, I get many different answers and suggestions. The various avenues are thought provoking. Some are fascinating ideas and make me want to journey deeper into the concept. Others do not resonate at all, but I find the viewpoints worthy of exploration for they most often do not represent what I believe are aspects of me or my story.
It is interesting to see your stories reflected back to you from another human’s perspective. To hear their interpretation of your life as filtered through their experience is surprising, thought-provoking, and curious. It has helped me to realize how alike and diverse we are and how so many people allow their own wounds and beliefs to color interpretation.
One of my favorite parts of this process is opening doors within myself that were shut long ago and perhaps even plastered over. To have to find the right words or descriptions to allow my fellow Earth campers to enter my world for a bit of time. The questions that have been asked and the writing assignments (and challenges) given have taken me deeper into myself and my beliefs. Finding as you go to answer a question that you are suddenly crying as you attempt to find the right phrases to convey the experience. Or the moments of remembered joy that spontaneously spring forth.
I am glad it is taking so long because with each rewrite or new idea or style change comes greater opportunity for growth. And isn’t that what this life is all about?
