Nature morte, pot à lait et fruits sur une table by Paul Cézanne (1890)
Outside of WE’RE ALL FRIENDS HERE, my writing usually explores themes relating to place, identity, belonging, family, and food. Today, I’m pleased to share a piece along those lines that was recently published by The Dirty Spoon, an online journal and radio hour.
You might enjoy “What the Tomato Sandwich Taught Me” if you love tomato sandwiches; if you’ve ever known a food to taste like home; if you’ve wondered what it’s like to be progressive in the South; or if you’ve ever asked yourself where, exactly, it is that you belong. At the very least, check out their amazing illustration.
Working with The Dirty Spoon was a true pleasure, not just because I could talk about tomato sandwiches all day — honestly, I had to hold myself back — but because it’s wild how good even a single yes can be in a world of no. On this path of sacrificing stability to live a life more committed to my creative purpose and values, doubt has been a frequent visitor. It has not been easy. There have been exaggerated highs and remarkable lows.
But then, out of nowhere, someone believes in you and wants to produce your work. That’s a gift.
In the spirit of community and connection, I have to thank Abby Rosebrock, my brilliant friend and life collaborator, who reads this column. Knowing the power of her brain, I’m tempted to ask her opinion on every word I write, but I usually spare her. In this case, I sent the very first draft to her in a weak moment. She responded graciously, as always, and helped me strengthen it right out of the gate. Another gift.
Isn’t that what the creative path, or any path of purpose, offers, if we stick with it?
Gifts. Of humans sharing their stories, talents, and care. I am, as the kids say, 100 percent here for that.
Read “What the Tomato Sandwich Taught Me” on The Dirty Spoon.
Between you and me—
I’ve gone to two protests for Black lives in my city thus far, and I’ll be at two more this weekend. As a result, I have some thoughts on the nature of protest to share next weekend. In the meantime, watch for the second installment of Let’s Talk on Tuesday. Black voices I’m listening to at the moment include Audre Lorde, Toni Morrison, Spike Lee, and Code Switch. What’s been most illuminating for you lately?
WHAT A JOY!!! I love this essay and now am a fan of The Dirty Spoon. Never spare me your thoughts or words!!