In the first weeks of this year, I found myself chasing a unicorn through the streets of Chicago. No, this is not a metaphor. I was at my umpteenth protest/march of the past year, and I had spotted whimsy amidst the madness.
This particular bit of whimsy took the form of a giant, pink, inflatable unicorn costume. These costumed characters have become a symbol of resistance over the past year. A touch of silliness standing up to utter insanity.
Life is many things, but I like to think the most important is those tiny moments of magic. Those unicorns, if you will, in the middle of an anti-war protest. You might see it as romanticising your life or embracing spontaneity, but whatever you call it, it’s all whimsy.
It’s seemingly little things that can make life more magical, like stirring intentions into your morning coffee, taking the scenic route, singing in the show, striking up a conversation with a stranger, or trying to capture the magic of a unicorn at a protest. Whimsy encourages us to take life a little less seriously and embrace the fun.
Don’t get me wrong, there is a time and place for seriousness. However, certain powers that be would have you believe that serious should be the default, and I would beg to differ. A touch of everyday whimsy is what we’re fighting for, or it should be.
Be Kind. Be Brave. Stay Awkward.
Onward & Awkward 