Turning Points

When is it that we recognize we are at a turning point in our lives?   Do we only know it was a turning point after the fact, upon reflection; or are we at least subtly aware at the time of how important a decision we make will be for the rest of our lives?  Will a change in direction take us down a path we cannot ever backtrack and lead us away from everything familiar?   Do we actually need a compass or a map for orientation on our inner journeys?   Are we part of the turning points of our nation as well as of our individual choices?   Each must answer these queries on their own.

Often  journalists, historians, ordinary citizens ask what would have happened if the United States had not directly attacked Iraq after the events of September 11?  Not only would citizens in the United States have been affected differently, but also those in Iraq and then in other countries torn by war in the Middle East and Central Asia - who are still suffering.  What decisions were transposed by that event and response by your nation?   This is one example most of us in the world have been altered by in the 21st century.  It was a powerful turning point in the history of humanity.   In a similar way as in the 20th century, people were asked and recalled where they were on the day the US President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassinated; generations now will recall where they were on September 11, or in my case since we were in New Zealand, September 12, 2001.   Before the planes crashed into buildings in two different states, did you personally have any sense that life was about to change?   Did you hear the whispers in the wind of plans being hatched to shock and terrorize us?    Some did, some warned, some dreamt, some painted, some wrote, some danced of the maelstrom to come.

What about now?  Do you sense a change about to occur which will redirect the course of your life, your family, your community, your nation?   Personally, I do-but I write this post to solicit your viewpoints, your premonitions, your responses.   What direction will you take because of signals you receive, you feel?   Will you walk through the storm or is it time to take shelter?   Are you called to join a "fight" or do you choose to run or to hide?  Which way will you go...

"Terrain"-by Bangarra Dance Theatre of Australia

Artists throughout the existence of human civilization(s) have been the harbingers and commentators on significant changes and junctures in their societies. Visual and performing artists are able to transmit messages through their talent, skill and visions without political censors (often) knowing what they are trying to convey.  Since the world and populations are more closely connected because of the internet and satellite communications, artists are able to view each other across space and time and exchange ideas, reflections, criticism and praise for their work in a free (though public) forum.  Many were/are prescient and this is verified looking back at when they saw ahead and painted, sculpted, wrote, played music or danced for us to see, if we opened our "eyes, ears and minds".  Most don't until it is too late.   Below are some different artists views in various mediums from a number of countries over the last 100 years.  They dare to show us what the majority of people will never speak about.   Are you able to see what they have to say?  You are being forewarned.

While writing tonight, I am listening to a musical master whose compositions transport me to a landscape where thought, vision and decisions are more possible.   I am on the threshold of another turning point in my life and receive conflicting signals and advice of what steps to embark on next.   Almost all human beings have similar junctions-especially women-in terms of decisions regarding if they will: devote time to study early in their life, get married, have children/not have children, risk losing economic security but gain personal liberty, make efforts to mend relationships, reveal the truth even if it means isolation,  cut off ties to toxic situations and persons, venture into the unknown, stay in a comfortable, familiar environment, forego career advancement for less stress, do further studies or just be still for awhile.  It is my deep belief that while we make our choices walking, striding or trudging on our life path-our destinies, our nation's and humanity's turning points are ultimately in God's hands.  There are however, times when biology, geography, genetics, age and nationality definitely narrow our chances for choices.   Be mindful my younger readers, that the opportunities you have in your twenties and thirties in all realms, do not present themselves in the same way (if ever again) later on in your life; if indeed you are able to live into and past your thirties.

Sharing the music of the Ukrainian born guitar master Estas Tonne, who grew up in both Ukraine and Israel, then went to New York city in September 2001-where his music blossomed and his own style was refined.   He travels all over the world now but in November, he will be touring in the USA for those fortunate enough to reside where he will perform live. He has a facehook page with his tour dates and venues. The image above is from his album "Internal Flight".  A musical excerpt is linked below.  Do take the time to listen-you won't be disappointed and you, too, might be transported to ethereal spaces.   In those spaces your internal compass may be evident and your points to turn be clear.   
​Give it a try.  Exercise your free will and choose to listen.
​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGTxqhSN8bE


Live, love, keep creating while ye may-our world is changing rapidly.   
Until next week,


Jo

Links to artists sites:
www.bangarra.com.au/
www.ottodix.org/
alexeysteele.blogspot.com/
www.neondystopia.com/cyberpunk-art-photography/the-future-is-now-an-interview-with-josan-gonzalez/
Vrej Kassouny interview linked:  www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyU5x-9EquM

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