While I was at Burning Man, people would keep saying to me, "When you get back to the default world, you will try to describe your experience to those that ask you about Burning Man, and you will be at a loss for words." As someone who devotes themselves to self-expression, I thought that I would be exempt from this prophecy. But now, as I try to articulate the transformation that occurred within me during those 8 days, I am rendered utterly speechless.
I don't know how to express all those feelings, the upwelling of emotion, and the camaraderie I felt with every single one of my fellow human beings, whether they were an acquaintance, a friend, or a complete stranger. For the first time in my life I was able to freely express my appreciation for every form of life and creation, and was met in kind. All around me, the Universe conspired to teach me lessons about myself-- lessons that were simultaneously difficult and beautiful and painful.
From the moment we set out on our voyage across California and into the hot desert, the dark, fearful part of my subconscious opened up like a gaping wound, but waiting there was an abundance of love, softening each blow like a kind and demanding teacher. Everything that happened to me on the playa sang to me in subtle symphonies that whispered and roared that yes, it was okay to let myself hope for something incredible.
All I feel now is gratitude to the myriad of people who made my journey so heartbreakingly beautiful. If you are reading this post, I am speaking to you. Thank you for making my Virgin Burn a week that amplified the joy and love in my life to a deafening level.
