http://justmusing.net/site/wp-admin/includes/ First, I want to thank everyone who considered doing a vlog for VQ’s first Vlog-a-thon. Multiple people emailed to say they had planned to but ran out of time or were just nervous about getting online. I get it. I totally do. Maybe next time and if not, let’s enjoy the vlogs below.
Second, I want to give a huge shout out to J. I never know what will be submitted when I do these calls for readers to respond. This vlog, however, went way beyond any expectation I could have had. This is absolutely raw and has brought tears to my eyes each time I have watched it (which, at this point, is many). I am so proud that we are able to give you the space to launch your voice even when the world is not safe. I first came to VQ because I loved that we modeled a world that should be for those who couldn’t imagine it being. You submitting this piece absolutely makes me feel like I am filling my own personal mission being here. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Also, HUGE VIRTUAL HUG.
From J:
I promised my own identity vlog. Here it is:
I also wanted to round this out with another blog on identity. This piece was not made for VQ but rather is something I found in a google search and wanted to share. In the end, there is so much of our identities that make us different, that make us “other.” At the same time, there is so much that unites us.
Finally, don’t miss earlier submissions to this Vlog-a-thon by regular contributors Polly, Vikki, and Deborah.
Tag your pics #villageq to be included in the family album at 
So, so much to love above, Clare.
Number one: J. Wow, J, thank you. Also, I hope we hear more from you. I would listen to your sock puppet week in and week out. I need to hear what your sock puppet has to say, and I would love that sock puppet in dialog with others who stop by here.
Two, thank you Clare for your train ride-meditation. I loved “Identity’s funny that way. It’s the pieces of ourselves that *we* think are important, and not necessarily what the rest of society sees, or thinks of as important. And sometimes it’s invisible.”
And three: thank you for posting Luis Berrios’ piece. Moody, evocative, and as articulate about the complexity and overlapping layers of identity as it would be if it were filled with words.
I so agree about J and her sock puppet. I have so many questions for her. And such huge desire to wrap her and her partner and any children they may someday have in our VQ style of love and support.
Also, thanks for your kind words and for picking out possibly the only soundbite from that train horn filled piece.
Can I just tell you how much fun it is for me to see J’s vlog posted?!?! I have been secretly stalking villageQ for months now (obviously before it was renamed). And when I saw an invitation to submit a vlog, I knew I had to get J to do one. If you haven’t figured out yet, I’m the other foot in this sock puppet relationship! Just wanted to say thanks for providing a place where people can come to feel welcomed and understood! And thanks for sharing J’s video!
Hi M!
I can’t thank you enough for convincing/supporting J to do the blog— I can’t tell you how much it meant to me. And, really, have you not already noticed the calls for her return. Perhaps we could have M & J sock puppet dialogues!
In all honestly, I love that this is a space where you both feel safe, supported, and understood. Hope to see more of you on here as opposed to just the internet stalking. 😉
Hugs to both of you!!!!
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