Shadows shift, alter, but never fade. They are contrast for light, a companion to our fears, the joy of a good mystery.
This week, it had been my intention to photograph shadows, to have fun with what emerged, but life does not always follow our intended map. Instead, another woman came forward to make allegations of sexual assault and the ensuing public backlash caused my own traumatic shadow to rear again.
That’s the thing about shadows – they may originate in the past, but they have the capacity to extend well into the present and beyond. This shadow does that. It distorted my past, darkens my present, and spreads fear into the future. It never does any good to run from shadows, though – for within the dark there is treasure to be revealed. Therapy has taught me this.
Instead of running, I wrote about it. Not a long piece, only three hundred words or so, and I sent it out into the world – published it here on my blog, but also submitted it for publishing elsewhere. I shone a light in the dark, so to speak.
The piece is to be published tomorrow on One Woman’s Day blog (a project of the Story Circle Network). A small slice of vindication.
Our communal efforts produced poetry, photography, and reflections about shadows as enhancement, overriding, playful, artistic, and fantastical. Thanks to all who participated for the inspiration and creativity.
This week’s contributors – do please drop by, if you haven’t already – include:
See you tomorrow for another challenge.
