Guess Who?

As Black History month is coming to a close, we thought we'd come up with a little challenge, identify these heroes!

Extrovert/Introvert

Do you guys know the difference between an extrovert and an introvert?

There are many widespread definitions out there (if you're interested, search for more info on Google) but I'll keep it short and sweet: Extroverts are energized by being with others and crave connection with others to feel satisfied. Introverts are energized by alone time. They tend to get exhausted when spending lots of time with people and need quiet time to recharge their battery.

There is no right or wrong or bad or good, it's just a matter of who you are and what you naturally need! I found this map of an introverts world and it made me smile (as I am a total introvert!) I thought you would enjoy!

Can you relate to this? Anyone you know can relate to this? What would an extrovert's heart look like? 

One Night in Miami

Have you heard of the play, "One Night in Miami"?

In honor of Black History Month, let me give you a little synopsis (summary):

February 25, 1964. Twenty-two-year-old Cassius Clay has just won the world heavyweight boxing title. Instead of hitting the town, Clay chooses to celebrate in a Miami hotel room with three close friends—activist Malcolm X, singer Sam Cooke, and football star Jim Brown. This fictional account of a real night imagines what might have happened in that tiny hotel room. As the Civil Rights movement stirs outside, and the melody of “A Change is Gonna Come” hangs in the air, four men will emerge from that one night ready to define a new world. 

Center Stage: One Night in Miami

This play is currently playing in Baltimore at Center Stage Theatre. It has been SO successful (sold out nearly every night!) the theater agreed to extend the show for two more weekends! I'm not saying that you all should pack up and head to Baltimore, its just that this is something to celebrate. The show has only been performed one other time (it is still a new play) but I'm sure after this success it will continue to blossom. 

So here's your mission, if you choose to accept it: You know the scenario. Imagine for yourself what would have happened in that hotel room with these four incredible men gathered. What would they talk about? What would they think is funny? What would make them sad or angry? What kind of questions would you want to ask them? How do you think the play ends? Use this as an exercise to expand your imagination and learn something new. Challenge yourself and imagine big. 

Egg Inspiration

Take a second to check out this picture: 

Think about it...think about it...

Does anyone else find this super inspiring? For me, this means great things come from WITHIN. Meaning, the joys/successes/restorative things that happen in your life all come from within you. Stop waiting to win the lottery or for the perfect job to find you, go out there and MAKE it happen from within you. Does that make sense? You can look at the world and be angry about our messed up systems, power, and economy and allow those outside influences to dictate your life. OR you can  love yourself from within and share all that you are with the world. 

Stay hopeful. Stay strong. Command your inner light and bust out of that egg!

Basics in Balance

Restoring your life is more than just employment. It's about getting your all of the pieces in your life in balance and in order. 

Think about the basics: 

1. Your home

2. Your family

3. Your health

4. Your employment 

How many do you have a grip on? Where do you need to spend more of your effort? Mending relationships with family? Taking better care of your body? Think over the basic elements of your life and see if they are in balance. 

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. We are here to help along with many other Detroiters. We found this graphic from Rowhouse 4 and thought it very appropriate for today. Don't forget to thank your family, friends, and deepest supports because we all need each other more than ever.

Inspire

Art, art, and more ART!

What do you guys think about this piece by Don Griffin called "Sun Ship"? 

First things first, ANYONE can understand art. You don't have to go to school. You don't have to understand art history. You don't have to love every piece you see. All you have to do is look!! Talk about it!! Think about it!! 

A great way to look at art is to take in all of the shapes, colors, and textures first. What do you see first? What does it remind you of? Anything in your own life or memory? How does the entire piece make you feel?

Check out more of Don Griffin's work at:

Unexpectedartspace.com

Don't forget about our beautiful DIA! Take your child or family or significant other and wander around. There's lots of beautiful art out there to explore!

Let's Talk!

Did you know Harriet Tubman rescued 300 slaves from the south using the Underground Railroad system? 

Can you even imagine 300 people? Think of a chunk of the Tigers stadium or a small concert...that's A LOT of people. 

Stay hopeful. Stay strong. Let's learn together this month!

Who are your favorite Black History month heroes? Who would you like to learn more about? Leave a comment below and let's start a conversation! 

Black History Month

As we ring in the month of February, we're excited over here about Black History month and learning with all of you.

Be sure to follow our Twitter account for little question and answer trivia! All of us are learning, so why not do it together?

Here's a fact from our Twitter account today:

@DetroitECHO:

Nov. 2, 1983, Pres Reagan signed a bill creating a federal holiday to honor King. It was observed for the 1st time on 1/20/86

Let's learn together! Stay tuned for more facts, stories, and history this month!