Joy Core
+ Lowrider Culture at Muzeo
Showtunes always get me pumped! Whether I’m writing, exercising , or simply need a pick me up in the day— the opening numbers of musicals for example, are used to set the scene, establish the rules of the world, gently (or abruptly) introducing us to the story about to unfold. They peak our interest and promise us an enticing tale.
In our day to day life, imagining and co-creating the new is challenging ; the collective energy jolts us and depletes our empathy. We become resentful, punishing and then feel guilty for feeling that way. If we’re not careful, we can quickly lose the thread of our goals and aspirations.
I’ve written before about grief as a portal
but what about ✨JOY CORE ✨
The portal of possibilities. You know, that somatic feeling that resonates and reverberates. Maybe it’s not show tunes, but another music genre or band that activates joy. Maybe it’s a place you like to go, or a community you reach out to. The trending hope from the recent elections of mayoral races and propositions all promise to make a difference in our political future, but they still rely on political parties to do good on their promises. We outsource our future to others and let go of our own responsibility to make a difference in our corner of the world. As it was clear in the Obama era, hope is a futile energy; we cannot live and even less so thrive on it. Our world is tangible as well as energetic, so we need possibility beyond the symbolic idea of hope. To put it simply, hope is passive, joy is active.
Fabulous creatives like Thea Monyee have taught me a lot about the power of joy, and its real tangible results. If we look at the scale of energy, it’s a big leap from anger or grief to joy, which is why the medicine of JOY CORE helps us vibe higher.
I’m super excited to share another portal of joy at Muzeo in Anaheim, CA. Sunday November 16th at 2pm a groups of poets led by Anaheim Poet Laureate Camille Hernandez will be sharing pieces inspired by their latest exhibit Lowrider Culture in the United States. As part of my joy practice, I will be dressing up and invite you to attend in your pachuco best. Tickets are available here.
If you are unable to attend in person or would like to hear some of my pieces in video format before then, The Ugly Mug filmed my poetry feature and you can watch the playlist here. As you will see, the audience was incredibly receptive and they made the performances so evocative. I am blessed to be in spaces that honor documenting these moments and make them accessible to more people.
Next month I hope to share a book review of all the books I read in 2025 on Patreon as well as more goodies. At the Madrinas/Padrinxs level you will find even more opportunities for monthly creative connection.
Thank you for your support and may you find your pockets and portals of joy on your journey.
With love,
-Anatalia