Moving Still

I’ve been yearning for a smooth space. Today I found 10 minutes of slowness in the machine that is #aera19. Where did I find it? In a taxi.

The car has become an unique mode of transportation for me. Yes, the car carries my body; yet, the car also creates unique conditions for thinking and being on the move while always being still. Whether it is the 2.5 hour commute I make to Jackson, MS each week or a quick trip between conference buildings, I find peace in the car. It carries my body so I can carry my thoughts.

Ideas are transported at varying speeds: fast, slow, yield, stop, turnaround— I feel the world differently.

What thoughts are rendered-capable here? With the taxi driver? Among myself?

Here, in the car ... 
there are no claims being made.
there are no assertions imposed on my subjectivity.
there are no expectations to move quickly.

Instead,
a new thought lingers.
time feels multidimensional.
my pulse slows down.
images of the present become blurry.

Here is where I desire to sit.
Here is where I desire to move.
Here is where I desire to breathe.

But, that’s neither here nor there.