Words

What we tell ourselves about ourselves is what we know. What we tell others about themselves can have profound impact, even if our words aren’t intentional or thoughtful. I was raised to never “correct” anyone, especially an adult or older person. But sometimes being polite enables the perpetuation of harm. There is a quote attributed to Buddha (and a variation to Gandhi): “If you don’t see God in the face of the next person you meet, look no further.” Uncomfortable conversations can be had with grace. Words matter.

Teresita Fernández’s site-responsive wall works that take the form of maps, such as Fire (America) 5 (2017), can be interpreted as scorched earth. She offers an image of land destroyed through intentional or irresponsible decision-making. The interpretations of people with power making tactless comments to those with less can have an irreparable ripple effect. Course correction can also have an equally profound impact. Lean into the discomfort and endure the response; it will matter.