Reflections.
ten years ago, i gave life to a doll named L’Chele.
she was loud, sexy, and free--qualities i felt were lacking in me.
her body was formed from a pair of old socks, stuffed with cotton balls.
her halter top, high waisted shorts, fishnet stockings, and combat boots
were tediously crafted with scraps:
crushed black velvet, strips of antiqued leather, and a tattered flannel plaid shirt.
i labored over her, pouring in the energy i wanted to actualize myself.
she was a force to tarry with:
glass-eyed, slow stitched smile, wild, purple yarned hair--mimicking my thick afro.
when i was ready, i created a ceremony for her release.
my alter ego needed to become embodied, exploring her myth as my lived reality.
answer these guiding prompts + questions using lists/poetry/free write.
time yourself for 20 minutes.
try your best not to judge yourself as you write.
honor what surprises you--lean into a spirit of curiosity.
envision yourself with everything you need.
imagine your opportunities as abundant-limitless.
how do you feel?
how would your life change?
what do you wear? how do your clothes speak to your purpose?
what influences this change?
where do you live?
how do you start your day?
what connections do you make throughout the day?
how do you find pleasure?
how do you end your day?
who’s spending time with you (human + non-human kin)?
how do you show them care?
What is your commitment to your becoming?
what is your commitment to your kin?
remember to always treat your doll with respect.
they are a part of you.
tethered to your dreams,
motivated by your imagination.
your responses are your outline for making your doll. look around your home. what could you use to assemble the body?
think about how to use at least one item of intimate value--passed down clothes from a family member or close friend,
a love letter, a mantra.
what will you fill your doll with? dried herbs, rice, or flour? will you tuck in a crystal or a stone?
what will you use on their face and hair? what expression will your doll have? what will this remind you of?
think about how you will bless your doll. your blessing is a call to speak life--
letting them know who they are called to be, their designated purpose.
is it evolving, circumstantial, or unknown?
what are they created to reveal?
spray your doll with your favorite fragrance or essential oil.
pay attention to the components of your fragrance: are they grounding? clear out negative energies? do they support in focus?
lastly, where will you place your doll?
will you prepare a space? place them high, where they can bask in the sun or near your bed so you may greet them?