✨ THE POWER OF UNITY ✨
When you realize ComicCon isn’t just costumes and fandoms—it’s community, creativity, and career magic too!
I am off on my third business trip in a month. I am sitting in the American Airlines Admiral’s Lounge, enjoying a tolerable coffee and less tolerable scrambled eggs. My eyes are a bit puffy, and my legs ache from the unforgiving floors of the airport terminal.
And yet–I am happy.
My experience at Atlanta Comic Convention was transcendental. I remember the moment it hit me. It was Day 2, and I had already finished my panels. I was wandering the floor, absorbing all the sights and sounds around me. I stopped to see my dear friend Elara Dunn, a YA fantasy book writer and anti-bullying warrior. She was talking to a pair of teenagers, both of whom shared some experiences similar to some of the story points in her books.
I thought,
“this is so beautiful…a place where people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, abilities, and beliefs can gather and be embraced.”
I saw fairies, dragons, superheroes, demons, angels, witches, spirits, sidekicks, anime something-somethings, sprites, and everything in between. And I saw joy. Pure, unadulterated joy. 🧚✨
I started tearing up, so happy to not only be included in this event and be with my friend but also to be accepted. I belonged too! I, a 55-year-old emotional support auntie and fervent believer of all things goofy, was embraced by every ghoul, ghost, and Galadriel. What a beautiful world.
Is this relevant for someone professionally?
Absolutely. For one, very few people want to be in an environment where it’s work, work, work…moles and trolls, moles and trolls all the time. Poet William Cowper was correct when he wrote, “The Task” (1785):
“Variety is the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavor.”
Secondly, connecting with people with similar interests could open up job opportunities. I met a few aspiring documentary filmmakers whom I offered to assist on their projects. I also met a costume designer whom I’m likely to hire for an upcoming project.
Most importantly...
Creativity can come from emotional experiences. What could be more inspirational than thousands of joyous fans, celebrating the fantastic and crazy possibilities our world has to offer?
There is power in unity.
Together we can express joy and wonderment. It’s inspiring and beautiful. And when used for good, it can change the world. 💖🌟
