The Art of Reconciliation, William Massey

Eastside Trail

I have long believed in the power of art to heal ourselves and our world. I know for sure the internal and external are inextricably linked. Even without knowing that the piece is the product of a community collaboration of more than 200 people over a period of months coupled with the insight of found objects, The Art of Reconciliation invites us to see through labels, barriers, cruelty, consumption, and violence to find compassion. When I look at the piece, I see disparate objects that in and of themselves tell no story. Placed together, in unique harmony only possible through the voices of a community, they are the story of redemption and hope, strength and beauty, connection and love. “Trash” becomes narrative. What we throw away becomes what we treasure. That is the truth our world so desperately needs. That is the hope our world so desperately needs. That is the reconciliation our world so desperately needs.

A Note on my Atlanta Beltline Writing Project

I am practicing paying attention. I am practicing noticing beauty. I am practicing getting in touch with my artist self. I am practicing connecting with the outdoors. I am practicing my inner Mary Oliver. I live in Atlanta, “the city in a forest.” I live on the Atlanta Beltline, an interurban trail that graces the city. The Beltline is part arboretum, part art gallery, part park. It connects shops and restaurants and homes with people of all descriptions. I walk on the Beltline 4 or 5 times a week. I have spent the last year appreciating all that it is. My hope is to write about it — its art, trees, landmarks, etc.— for the next few weeks as spring unfolds. I want to soak it all in.