Cija Jefferson
May 2023, preferred pronouns: she/her

Expansive. Rejuvenating. Nourishing. These are the words that immediately come to mind when reflecting on my experience at Baldwin for the Arts. I struggled at first with getting out of the scheduled mindset, but once I accepted that this space was created specifically as "a place to dream" I began to relinquish the reins of control and just be. I woke around 6:30 one morning and went outside to meet the sun. I took naps, something I rarely do. I posted up in the kitchen where I did a lot of my writing. I went to town and talked to the people. I browsed the bookshelves and admired the art. I also started a new essay, and worked out a timeline to help organize my chapter ideas for my project. Once I rested, and became gentle with myself my spirit opened up to this beautiful gift. I will be forever grateful.