This is a picture postcard of the “The Marina Room” restaurant in La Jolla, CA. It was taken in 1941. What is most striking to me is that no one in the photo is looking at the ocean. There they sit, while ominous looking waves crash onto the shore, sipping cocktails and focused only on what is right in front them (cocktails and well-dressed, attractive dining partners).
I went to this restaurant one late afternoon in the mid-2000s. It was calm, warm day in June. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the ocean as it lapped at the shore. I couldn’t help but imagine myself (in black and white of course) in that 1940s dining scene. How exciting it would be, how fierce … protected by the glass of strong windows, but witness to the storm. Emphasis on witness.
That’s how I feel now. Eyes glued to the storm, but isolated and safe. I realize that safety is a privilege. No danger awaits me should I go outside (well, 5 or 6 on a scale of ten if I go to the grocery store). I do not know yet how I will take action to help ensure that feeling of safety be available to people whose skin color threatens and engenders hatred and inequality
Change is scary. Change is exciting. Change is afoot.
Love to all.
