‘Connection’ is the Theme - Danae
Connection is the theme that comes to mind when I think about the beginning of my year in Jubilee. I have been able to connect more intimately with myself, my community, and my beloved city, Los Angeles.
Through this journey, I have explored the depths of my shadow self, and realized that I have been repressing my own anger and needs/wants. In order to grow to become a more whole and integrated person, I have been discovering the edges of my own being and honoring them. With the help of our fearless leaders, Junmey and Payton, I have been practicing communicating my boundaries and I started therapy. Both of these things have been a long time coming, and I am proud of myself for making progress in these areas and becoming more connected to my authentic self.
This year, I have also become more connected to my soul city, the multifaceted and beautiful Los Angeles. Through living in Hollywood and working in Crenshaw, Boyle Heights, and Eagle Rock at different housing developments, I have been able to more intimately experience the different corners of Los Angeles and make connections with the lovely Angelenos who inhabit these unique neighborhoods. I have always declared that I love Los Angeles unconditionally - from the palm trees to the freeways to the litter to the gorgeous sunsets - and I am happy to report that this sentiment has only grown as I have become more connected to this living and breathing city.
In addition, in the past few months, I have connected deeply with my dear community at Jubilee. Through our spiritual practices, community dinners, and just talking to each other about our day to day lives, the Hollywood house has become a cherished community for me. Danny and Mostyn are incredibly kind souls and deep thinkers and I am so grateful to know them and live with them. Furthermore, getting to know Jubilee alumni has been another one of the highlights of my experience thus far. Klaire and Naomi, in particular, have welcomed me with open arms and have shared their wisdom and care with me freely. In the coming months, I hope to deepen these life-giving connections and further explore what Jubilee year has to offer!