The Silent Power of Powwows

Because I’m going to four powwows in the next four weeks, I’ve been spending most of my time this summer weaving with yarn instead of words.

I don’t know . . .(next page)

I guess it just feels safer to stay away from words these days, because so many people take exception to other people’s words.  Words have become weaponized, and even the most innocent comment can offend someone, leading to outrage or even death threats.  When I told a friend how depressed I’d been because of the very bad bout of covid I was suffering, she immediately wanted to call the suicide hotline for me.  Um, can’t I just express my frustration and sorrow without being put on some sort of federal watchlist?

This is why I’m not publishing anything right now, even though I have two manuscripts lined up and ready to go.  I don’t want to offend anyone or worry anyone, and I certainly don’t want anyone to come at me, howling about how I have no right to use a certain word or express my own opinion.  What a treacherous time this is for writers!  Just ask Salman Rushdie.

So, for now I’ll continue to keep my mouth shut and stay at my loom, except when I’m at a powwow, watching the dancers.  Like weavers, dancers can speak volumes without saying a word.  What a relief!