I have many great things I wish to accomplish today (as every day). But I wanted to share my copy of Pandora with Mother's Rice Queens -- especially in timing with this coming event.
This book means a great deal to me. In addition to it's amazing beauty, the purchase of it taught me one of the most valuable lessons in my life with regards to appreciating the quality of my life.
Like most actually, I grew up quite poor. The year before I went to college (1989), my mother made $2000 for the year, the whole year. The few things we had, she cherished beyond belief and like most children, I constantly ruined most of these possesions just being a child.
I went through college on academic scholarships, but the awareness of my low social significance was exemplified when I arrived at Boston University -- the most expensive private college in the country. I won't bore you with the details of how I got through that first year, I'll sum it up with this: pity from rich kids and the faculty mostly.
I now earn, thanks to this education and not necessarily because of it, a fair wage for using skills I enjoy flexing. But I am not wealthy, in fact, I am no where near it. I'm 30 and I still don't have a enough money to open a savings account. ... But, when in New Orleans, I came across this book for $175 and I wanted it. I really, really wanted this book in particular.
I have credit, but rarely use it. I decided after a rather agonizing hour and half (poor D.), that I could not afford it. I went home quite beaten, but the beauty of the city comforts the poor and after an enjoyable evening in the quarter, I had that night a sound night's rest and the most wonderous dream -- immediately, first thing the next morning, I returned to the store and I bought the book.
And finally, the very important point of my sharing all my financial details with you: Not a day goes by, that I don't look at this book and think -- "I own art. I actually own art. Me. I've reached this point where I actually own this unique one-of-a-kind creation of an artist that I have my whole life adored."
That feeling, which hasn't diminished a day since owning this book - is worth so much more than the $175 I spent for it (which was easier to pay back than any bill or trendy fashion tag I've used it for) ... The value of art and what it adds to your self-worth and your quality of life; I urge you -- buy art. You can afford it. It's not just for the rich anymore. Don't let your friend give you their CD -- buy it. Underground films starring artists you know (from these very rooms) are online for sale -- buy them. Williamsburg truly full of talented young artists in the midsts of exploring themselves -- visit the galleries: but stop at a restarant on the way home. All the walls are stocked full of art you probably can afford. If you like it, it's worth taking a look at what it costs and the artist who made it.
Rice Queens -- I hope this didn't disrupt the chatty and fun banter ... Perhaps, this I can try to restore, what I really want to know, is if anyone is into any of the female charachters? and why?
[This message was edited by TonyaKnudsen on 10-20-02 at 03:57 PM.]