To lead an admirable life, one shall seek out reasons to be appreciative for the splendor that exists in unison with the present. By hunting for causes that generate feelings of gratitude from within, one is able to perceive the space in the proper mindset, which is the ultimate goal for all in the flesh. Regardless of what’s playing out in someone’s reality, all moments spent feeling indebted to the universe are moments well-spent.
This week, while aiming to align with this very observation, I took a trip to the bookstore with a fresh motive: spot the charm of a business housing a multiplex of creative-based compositions. Though my body dwells in a digital world, my soul craves physical art. Tangible creations carry an ingenious essence that impalpable works lack, as there’s just something special about holding a piece of art that someone, or a group of people, poured their blood, sweat, and tears into bringing forth.
With innovative handiworks taking up almost the entirety of the store, remaining in line with my objective was elementary. I perused down the well-kept aisles and scanned the shelves of books. Once I checked out all the classics, new releases, and everything in-between, I made my way over to the vinyl section. Though limited albums were on display, the music space was rich in melodic flavor. I thumbed through Pop, Jazz, Rock, Country, and Hip-Hop records with delight. With Hip-Hop being my favorite of the bunch, the moment I saw Wu-Tang’s iconic debut project, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), I snatched it out of the bin to further examine its excellence.
Next up was the movie section. Similar to the music area, the DVD district was slender, but filled with value. Looking for a motion picture that was on par with Wu Tang’s inaugural album (or at least close to it), I surveyed spines of the plastic-wrapped optical disc packages until my eyes identified a hit. Soon after, I plucked Fight Club off the shelf.
Carrying a legendary album, and a timeless movie, I headed to my final stop. Standing in front of the ‘YA Nonfiction’ zone, I explored the titles designed to enhance the lives of the next generation. In doing so, I came across my book, Trust The Grind. Since it was my first time here, I was unaware that it existed at this location in MA, so it was pretty sweet to lock eyes with something I made over 6 years ago.
It was at this moment where I realized the importance of finding random reasons to be thankful whenever I can. The idea that a place shelters something I made + WU-TANG’S WORK is pretty awesome. It’s fun to think that someone could walk up to the checkout line at this Barnes & Noble with 36 Chambers, Fight Club, and Trust The Grind.
I never gave thought to this hypothetical, but I’m glad I did, as it has motivated me to make something that has the cultural impact of both the movie and album that I seized from their place at a bookstore filled with prolific productions.
