More on Brooklyn... and Kali.

So I'm still here. It feels like a long trip. I'm ready to move on... but just one more day. Tonight I'm going to see a movie. A French movie. I'm not sure where or what, but it will happen.

The conference is interesting, and I've had the chance to meet some interesting people. I'm glad that people have been including me in things. These events always remind me of the first week at a new school: forced talking, sharing way too much information with strangers, and weird food.

Today was a bit better because we had a field trip. We went to the Brooklyn Museum of Art to see the new Elizabeth Sackler Center for Feminist Art. I have to email my cousin about that. She used to write for a feminist website, but I haven't seen any article links from her mom recently... I should check in and see how things are going.

Part of the permanent exhibition space is Judy Chicago's piece The Dinner Party, that consists of table settings dedicated to important women throughout history. One of them is Kali.

Kali is the "Fierce manifestation of the Hindu mother goddess; her powers are associated not only with destruction, but also with creation and restoration" according to the pamphet on the Dinner Party. A true Mother Nature figure, that is responsible for both devestation and regrowth and renewal.

Of course, this makes me think of my friend Kali, from college. (And this discussion is really a secret ploy to get her to leave a comment.) I wonder what it was like to grow up with such a powerfully-associated name. To me, she is just Kali. I guess she is simply that to most people, but it was interesting to try to compare her to such a powerful deity.

Capable of destruction: Yes. Mostly to herself though. My favorite picture ever is when she twisted her ankle in Greece and had to be carried to the local police station where we convinced them to give us a ride back to our hotel.

Responsible for creation: Yes. This woman makes the best salads ever. And she is extremely good at creating connections between people too. I have Kali to thank for my on-going friendships with some of the most important people in my life to date.

Catalyst for regrowth: Yes. Her home (and her sister's home), her wonderful family, and her generosity have often helped to mend and regenerate calm, power, and confidence in me. On a small level and on a large level, she has helped me tremendously and is an amazingly supportive friend in the "regrowth" department!

So big shout-out to Kali. Hope to see you next week!