I joined TEDx Seattle 2020. The event itself showed the other (bright) side of Covid, first ever virtual and free. I don’t know its past attendance # yet 1200 watching live would be a great # to spread worthy ideas, thank you TEDx Seattle hosting team.
The theme was chosen well – to bridge and understand the “other sides” of ideas, knowledge, and behaviors. Jane Roskams’s citizen science and Thomas Deuel’s Encephalophone to enable people without physical movement to play music with mind were fascinating. Matthias Olt’s Biophilia design to incorporate nature and Ricahrd Rhodes’ hand-carved stone works were amazing. Yet, I’m moved ‘n touched the most by Caroline Catlin’s personal struggle (after cancer diagnosis) and learning from photographing death.
Death is a topic we don’t often or feel comfortable to talk about. Grief and fear are real and important, so are love and peace, even during the difficult times. I felt them when I said goodbye to all my grandparents in 3 years. I especially love what Caroline does each night after she photographed the deceased and family, she would light up a candle to honor the passing. She said ‘you don’t need to light up a room to make a difference.’
No matter how long we live, what title we have, or how much money we make, be a candle to light-up for the people you love!