Good Health is Within Reach
The reflection below gives a nod to a healing journey i’ve been on for a few years. Elements of its origin lay in multiple and intersecting crises rooted in the financialization and privatization of nature, decaying water infrastructure, decisions and practices designed to save money at the expense of people’s lives, un-/poorly regulated environmental protections…i could go on. The water crisis in Detroit isn’t unique in the sense that municipalities around the country are impacted by similar forces. What is unique is the intentional and long-standing disregard for Black life as reflected in the policies and practices that put Flint and Detroit on the world stage.
The notion that healing is possible when the odds are (or appear) overwhelming is audacious to say the least. But if the body community can serve as a microcosm for what is possible, destroyers beware.
Good Health is Within Reach
as the tumor in my neck grew i wondered how much it had to do with the water. i was determined to rely on the municipal water system that my tax money already paid for. and i didn't want to help international corporations in their efforts to privatize our water supply.
and yet the tumor grew.
as the tumor in my neck grew i wondered if surgery was indeed needed. the doctor cautioned me at first then admonished me after deigning to believe that my body could heal itself. i wanted to give it a try before entering into a relationship with pharmaceutical companies whose bottom line valued my chronic dependence.
and yet i became more resolute in my belief that healing was possible.
as the tumor in my neck shrunk i felt the pain of many poisons. slowly but assuredly seeping through my system, making all of me sore. the loving support of the plants aiding my body to create conditions inhospitable to this toxic pouch.
and yet complete wellness remained just out of reach.
as the tumor in my neck shrinks i am reminded that in addition to the gifts of my plant relatives, my healing is supported when i release the thoughts, practices and relationships that promote toxicity in my spirit-body-mind community.
and with all this i know that while healing is continuous, good health is assured.