Why Hello

Well, it's me, Simon.  I don't know if Kimberlee ever told you that this was supposed to be OUR blog. She's definitely reminded me about that from time to time.  I have a strange relationship with blogging -- it's something I've always thought might be good to do, but I've never been sure I really have much to say. But I know in the back of my mind that the way you find your voice is to use it, so use it I will.

See, I've been thinking a lot lately about producing and consuming creativity.  Most of us consume the creativity of other's all day every day; we listen to music, read books, go to galleries, watch tv shows, read articles, pin things, watch youtube videos, read facebook updates, watch sports, even shop for things.  And sometimes we produce creativity too: we play music, film something, dance, write a blog post, sew clothing, mix music, take photographs, craft trinkets, build a home, or sing in the shower.  Some of what we consume is memorable, and some we wish we could forget.  And some of what we create is wonderful, some is trash, some things catch on and are seen by hundreds or thousands of people, and some stay in a notebook or under the bed, never to be seen by anyone: and those four come in all possible combinations.

So what is the right balance? Producing in a world void of consumers lacks meaning, and consuming just isn't possible without makers.  But how much is too much?  I think it comes back to those two little bits of wisdom that always sneak into these questions.

1. It depends on the person
2. All things in moderation

I believe that we all have some of each in us.  And I believe that many of us are drawn to one and have to struggle not to let it stomp out the other.  And that's as true of the person who spends 20 hour days making a movie as it is of the person that spends 20 hour days watching all 6 seasons of whatever.  I'm not saying never do it. I'm saying keep your perspective.  And maybe err a little on the side of creating.

And finally, when I sat down to write this post tonight, I wanted to share a video with you, and I have to apologize to whoever it was that shared this with me -- I just can't remember who it was, but thank you.  And thank you to Bon Iver for being willing to create in public.  If you have a half hour, use your ration of consumption on this: