Thunder and Strife

One of the things I enjoy about this time of year is the Mercury Music Prize. I enjoy it because it gives bands/artists you don’t hear in the mainstream. It gives me new sounds to try out and experiment. The odd big artist shows up but my personal choice this year was Michael Kiwanuka with his self titled album Kiwanuka. It sounded both brand new but old at the same time, but had this zeitgeist of where we are. The strife of 2020 with all its struggles.

I also have listened to this particular album back to front. It has some very intimate, deep and sad songs full of despair along with rousing anthems. It reached deep into my soul and reminded me of my own life. All the talk of activists, soul songs, late night talks about callings, setting the world to rights in coffee shops.

My mind has been in a deep state of thought as one form of strife has lifted off my shoulders. I’ve been looking around at the world around me, all the COVID troubles, the sheer levels of injustice in the US for black lives, both our governments and the general rise of fascism across the world.

All I know is to get my hands dirty and do what I can. Even if I can’t be physically with my friends planning and plotting. Whether its opening minds through my coaching, opening my mouth in my own activism or bringing new thoughts and experiences through music, I can’t just stand back and be quiet.

For many that could be simple existing, especially if there’s mental health issues present. Others have more capital and influence to make serious dents in society. Either way, we can all play a part in this thing called 2020. I could be one of those who have a deep dislike of this year, but I can’t.

All it’s offered me is potential to grow beyond the restraints of a ‘normal’ year. It may not call others to do the same, which is fine but it calls to me. It calls me to not shy away from a word I’ve always feared: leader.

Until next time, #embraceinfinity folks.

Aquila Hope is a transformative coach, black trans activist, speaker, podcaster and songwriter. They’re found through Instagram, Twitter, Medium and their own website. Their podcast ‘Grasp At The Root’ can be found on Anchor, Spotify, Google Podcast, Apple Podcasts or wherever podcasts are distributed. Aquila lives on the outskirts of Birmingham, enjoys self improvement, creating music, good coffee and pizza.