Empty Space
Generosity with the in-between…
As the holidays and the end of year approaches… I have been thinking about spaciousness. How to invite in more time, more energy, more resources to actually be present for all of the expectations that arise for me during this time. I want to hold a place for “empty space” at the table, so I may be sane and intentionally connect with those I cherish. So I may steer towards time well spent in ways that serve me best even if it doesn’t happen the way I expect.
What is your relationship to empty space? What impulses arise when you see it?
When there is a pause in a conversation, do you have a desire to fill it? Do you allow some silence so those who need a little time to contribute vocally have room to participate?
If there is blank space on a canvas, are you protective of keeping it void?
On an open stage, do you cling to the sides? Or do you take Center?
In a relationship, can you leave the dishes in the sink long enough for your partner to wash them because it is “their turn”, or do you need to have it done in the timeline set in your head? Can you wait for them to respond to your last text before sending the next, or is the space between messages a place where you imagination takes root to imagine the worst?
Whether it is in space or time, in relationship or in composition. Empty spaces are either attractive or terrifying.
….. In the Voice….. Pause….. the not knowing… silent scorn.
….. In Art…. Intentional Composition….possibility…. a lack of inspiration.
….. In Nature…. Preservation/expanse…. New plantings…..barren fields.
…. In Relationship… Allowance… longing… the growing apart.
Without the space between, without the pause or the longing, without the emptiness, the impact of when connection happens or abundance abounds, the sweetness of reconnection or receiving can get lost in the hustle and bustle of all the things flowing everything everywhere all at once. Just as we explored in duration + tempo, if music had no rests…. If the notes were constant and no variation? Is that even music, or is it just noise?
