Currently reading this with my morning coffee and I'm glad for it. Mark, I am in awe of what I see in you: your ability to reflect and think honestly about what's going on in your life (as well as social-economic-political realities), your innovative and imaginative mind, and your enduring commitment to living a creative, truth-seeking life. As Jung says:

"the artist is not a person endowed with free will, who seeks his own ends, but one who allows art to realize its purposes through him. As a human being, he may have moods and a will, and personal aims, but as an artist, he is "man" in a higher sense: he is "collective man." A vehicle and molder of the unconscious psychic life of mankind."

And as you know, this comes at a cost. It seems as though life will often be filled with unknown and uncertainty if we are living a path that is serving our authenticity and aliveness, and not what is serving oppressive societal norms.

Most importantly, I am touched by your willingness to share your complex history and past with the world as you continue to reconcile with those parts yourself. Some say that "light can only pass through what's transparent." And you are further freeing yourself from cycles of trauma by sharing it the world and stepping out of silence and shame. I know I'm just beginning to get to know you, but I'm so deeply proud of you. I see us working together for a long time and creating amazing things together.

This next year, may grace and dignity be more evident in your life. Whether it shows up in your grief and pain, or moments of insight and joy, or moments that bring good news about your work and financial security. May the good and the possible increasingly show up in your life. May the right people show up in your life to affirm your path and witness your growth and discoveries. May you further function like a free being who knows his power and the gifts he brings to this world. This is important, as outcomes are often not in our control.

Happy fucking birthday!

With love,
Amber