Holly Ringland Instagram – A couple of weeks ago I was in Sydney trying to calm my nerves: I was on my way to the biggest event of my writing career. As I got into my taxi, I recalled something Sam had said to me earlier: “don’t forget to give yourself a moment to take this in.” When I found that moment en route, I also found 14 year old me, clacking away on my secondhand IBM, writing my heart out. Funny how quickly our younger selves can bring sense and courage to a moment: I kept that nerdy, emotionally-porous kid close to me as I stood in the wings of Sydney’s City Recital Hall with @juliabaird and @michaelakalowski – two women I greatly admire. I kept that kid close as my heart pounded while we walked onto the stage and took our seats. For the next hour in that stunning venue we talked about creativity, joy and grace in front of a warm, generous crowd. I was humbled when Michaela asked me to speak about one of my favourite sections from The House That Joy Built: creativity is the light we leave on inside of ourselves, no matter how long we’ve resisted or neglected our own homecoming. Always shining, no matter how dim. Always waiting, for us to return. (At that point, in my mind’s eye, 14 year old me turned at her keyboard and gave me a nod of approval.)
Heartfelt thanks to Michaela, Julia and everyone who joined us. To readers who waited patiently in the signing line. To @sydwritersfest for inviting me to be a part of something so special. To the festival volunteers, staff and booksellers who made the magic happen. To Will and Theresa, ASL interpreters. And special shout out to the sound crew who played us off stage to my beloved Pearl Jam.
To allow ourselves to feel joy and to choose grace is often difficult. To embody either/both is the best of who we are and what we have to offer each other. In the words of poet Ross Gay, from The Book of Delights: “What if we joined our sorrows, l’m saying. I’m saying: What if that is joy?” This event was a powerful reminder of how important it is to share stories of imagination, humanity and courage. It was a career highlight, honour and privilege. I am so grateful to have been a part of it. | Posted on 09/Jun/2024 12:10:12
