occupy cal

 Singing with the gospel choir for occupy cal has been a highlight for me since i returned last year to finish my architecture degree.  maybe i waited so long to finish is so that i could be at this university during this period in history..as i am close to finishing i feel gratitude for what a wonderful, dynamic place this school is..i can feel the minds buzzing all around me..when i left to live abroad i was disillusioned with the USA, especially its politics and consumer culture..it took me 15 yrs in Europe before i felt it was time for me to return..after arriving back to live in california once again, i realized that what i missed most of all was its smell...the combination of white sage, artemisia, and hot rocks brought tears to my eyes as i breathed in deep...when my first husband , our 1 yr old daughter, Freya, and I went to Mexico City for a two months artist  in residence they gave us lodging close to the main plaza, el zocalo...we walked through the plaza everyday to get to the gallery...Freya would begin to bounce many blocks away and it wasn't until we got closer that i could make out the aztec drumming...during the day a small group adorned with feathers and sparkling costumes conducted ceremonies.. Freya would watch mesmerised, swaying and stepping to the beat...in the evening many locals joined them, dressed in everyday clothing..they would dance the dances of their ancestors..occupying the plaza and reclaimed their right to worship..