A few days ago, I came home with this note in my mailbox and the gift of community warmed me up. Seattle is particularly (and stereotypically) known for being standoffish. The Seattle Freeze is both a myth and an excuse to not be engage with strangers, namely neighbors. I've lived in Seattle for nearly a decade and even I catch myself refraining from any effort to say "hi!" while passing someone on the sidewalk.
Yeah, it can be that weird. But only because we make it weird.
Fortunately in the past few years, my engagement in the local literary scene has skyrocketed. Through hard effort, and a little of luck, I've met wonderful friends and acquaintances. And this wonderful note reminded me to continue to strengthen my neighbor and artist bonds, especially now when I need it most.
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