America just needs to find some common ground to solve the current strife and turmoil

Sed,

I sincerely want to thank you for taking the time to write that thoughtful answer to my question.

Thank you for helping me see these things a bit better.

My birthday was last week and I think that was the gift I didn't know I needed. Anyway, hope all's good in your corner of FL, ya beautiful basterd. I'm in CA, as you might recall. We just had two big quakes (one of them was the strongest in 20 years). If the Big One hits and I survive I'll be sure to let you know by way of The Chalkboard! :D

I like your take re: Art; being closer to naked than honest.

I think, to add to this, that truly great art doesn't aim at "being (great) art", but rather at discovering, mapping, dancing and foraging into darkness or chaos in some kind of innocent manner (notwithstanding nakedness, the potential vulnerability, the apparent danger). The routine you speak of here resonates especially. No worthwhile art or achievement seems to be accidental or random. Lately I've become acutely aware of the fact that Time feels way more finite and important than 10 years ago when I was dicking around to a greater degree.

I always heard from older folks some version of the same thing you've been saying but lately it resonates in more places.