Rae Not Lydia

I was sent home with food stuffed into a gallon freezer Ziploc bag from the kitchen at work (tbh, thank goodness they feed me at Our House 🧡).

When it was empty, I was considering whether or not to keep it, when I heard my mother's voice in my head "You never know when you're going to need it!"
I threw my hands up in a shrug, my mouth curved in a "Might as well!" face, washed the bag, and hung it upside down to dry.

I have been trying to remove microplastics from my life for the past few years, little by little, opting for glass and metal when I can afford to.

So I stopped. And realized this truth:
"This is the biggest hurdle we face when tearing down systems."
We struggle to eliminate the habits passed down to us by our elders, those who taught us with the best of intentions to face a world of struggle.

Yet, the only way we can create a new world is by tearing down the old one. As someone who believes in more than just reforming the system, this is my strong belief.

That means literally choosing new actions, even when they fly in the face of the wisdom we've been taught, in an effort to create something new.

"Don't rock the boat"
"Keep your head down and your nose clean"
"Just keep working"
"Keep calm and carry on"

Creating something new is almost always uncertain, and risky. Yet, bravery is not the absence of fear, but the presence of a passion that can overcome it with action.

It's time to clean out those plastic bags you're saving (including the ones you stash under the sink, yes I'm looking at you) and choose something new.
Because little actions you take matter.

Yes even amidst all *gestures around* THIS.

What's one little thing you did today to break down the systems of oppression?

Stay bold.

I'm participating in this October—a new program from the co-founder of that connects aligned peers for 5 weeks of capacity-building and focused creative momentum. Pollinator is currently only open to alumni from select institutions, including Artists Thrive. So excited to be a part of the pilot program, and help build a stronger, more interconnected cultural ecosystem. 🐝 Head to Pollinator.coop to learn more 💻✨

what do we do when a bully hits us?

I painted these clouds originally for my neighbors, as cards to introduce myself and build community.

Sometimes, it can be hard to make those connections, and it feels better to show up with a gift rather than empty-handed.

These (and every) monthly cell phone wallpapers are free for all Patreons (yep I said free), and you can even print them to share with YOUR neighbors, if you've been looking for a starting point to connect with community.

Who knows? It might make their entire day. (patreon.com/raenotlydia to read the story and unblur these babies)

Sunshines!! 🌻 I'm applying for an MFA program this coming spring (woah)!
Do I know anyone who has an MFA?
Any tips and tricks for assembling a portfolio would be so appreciated.