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Thanks for this, Jeff!! I'm grateful you're in the world.

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Likewise, Marcus. It's good to be here.

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What an incredible conversation!! I identify with the entire bag of experiences you both bring to this table. Marcus, the striving and addiction to finding my value in others (And how much the pandemic brought it too light). Jeff, of course the loss of faith. Through this conversation though, I thought more about that God presence and I really do think anyone (even a non believer) can see the hope and good that Marcus references as an underlying current or force, if you will, that supports us in some way. For me right now it helps to shift away from that force being a traditional “person” entity (but I used to identify with Marcus’s having a “Buddy” for sure!) Dipping into esoteric practices (like Tarot for example) helps me connect that force to an anima that could take the form of the universal elements... or even shapeless guides. Music, art, writing, and other forms of creativity shared by others, these are also guides that help me. (And often take shape in the “coincidences” Marcus mentioned!) Anyway, thank you both for the vulnerability in sharing! I can’t wait for Part 2!

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Thank you so much for this, Katie --it means so much that you would take time to listen and respond like this. You are a fantastic writer, btw.

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You’re welcome, Marcus, and wow, thank YOU!!

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Katie,

1. In my head the E.L. in your pseudonym stands for Elves Love.

2. Tarot is interesting to my. I've wondered if the cards could be used as creativity aids, kind of like Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies but with a dribbly candle vibe. I haven't gotten beyond idle curiosity yet. Do you have any thoughts on this?

3. I'm so glad you enjoyed the conversation. I'm looking forward to part two as well. It's been long enough that I can't remember what we talked about in the second half.

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Tarot is a therapeutic and creativity aid all in one! Basically, it can help dredge up the dark webby brain corners to uncover the baggage you need to unpack, but also shine light on the gifts you may be too distracted to notice. Then, depending on the illustrative style of the deck (and how your creative mind/taste connects with it), it can also help inspire creative writing. My Bonesick tales are based on this (and likewise help me sort out my own ongoing narratives).

And yes! Elves do really love Fudge! 😂

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