The Bubble

Why are we always drawn to those things that we are most familiar with? Is it for the comfort? The peace that inherently comes with being around things we know? It's true that the unknown is scary for a lot of people, but why- instead of acknowledging it and trying to combat it, do we flee?

Enough of the philosophical blathering. I was just thinking today how coming to UC Berkeley has changed my outlook on life. I remember when I was accepted and trying to choose between schools, I was drawn more to Irvine- a campus and curriculum I would be familiar and comfortable with. At the time I thought I wanted to pursue classical theater (Shakespeare, Euripides, Shaw, Ibsen, Chekhov...) and only classical theater. Contemporary plays were trite, boring, worldly and held no interest for me. So were my thoughts two years ago.

Obviously, I decided to stay in the Bay and go to Berkeley. A huge leap of faith. They were into "experimental theater" and crap. Something I was definitely not wanting to be a part of. Oh, how things can change without our realizing it!

I ended up being cast in a highly experimental production with a highly experimental director. It was one of the most fulfilling and mind-opening experiences of my life. Instead of dreading my classes on the theory of performance, I eagerly attended and found myself fascinated with the subject material. I look for "world premiers" of plays now, excited for new contemporary works and nodding in acceptance of strange, otherworldly shows that expand and challenge the definition of dance and theater.

I still love my classics, always will. But now...a new world of creativity has been opened. Makes me wonder what I missed out on by sticking to what I was comfortable with before. What opportunities did I miss? How could I have been challenged or expanded mentally and physically that I just ignored? What have I turned my back on without trying? Interesting and frightening questions. I'm not suggesting we should try things that go against our fundamental beliefs and morals, no, but find that thing that makes you say, "I don't do that." and do it. Maybe just a little. Maybe a lot...but how do you know what you'll like (or love) if you don't even consider trying it? We're here to learn, to widen our understanding and for that we need to travel quite a bit out of our comfort zones.

Just some food for thought. I put up my own barriers against trying somethings...but lately I've been better. Last entry, I sang in front of people and solidly discovered it was NOT for me. But how could I know unless I tried? The other week I had fish and chips for the first time. I thought I hated fish. I loved it, now I'm open to expanding my seafood palette. Just small things, but they make me feel so much.....more. Don't know if that makes sense...ah well.

Challenge: Try something you're sure you hate. Try two things you're sure you hate- one of them is bound to be better than you thought, right? Right??

:)

Laurel