ANNIE ROSS - SEEING THE TRUTH VIA ITS OPPOSITE

Sometimes we see the New Story best when we look at its opposite. Sometimes it's easier to identify connection, creativity, community and the common good when we take a healthy look at the shadow of separation, dehumanizing conformity, isolation and selfishness. I've been thinking about in this in the light of the death earlier this week of the extraordinary singer and actor Annie Ross.

One of the greatest performances in one of the bleakest of films is the one Annie Ross gives in SHORT CUTS (1993). An embodiment of the failure to see the impact of our own selfishness, and lament for its consequences, Annie's character is a warning. The whole film is a warning - really only to be watched when you want to face the darkness, and be reminded of why the only way to live freely and find the support we need is to do so in interdependent community, where everyone has the chance to serve from their gifts, and ask for help wherever they experience need. 

Annie Ross was rightly best known as a magnificent jazz vocalist, but her performance in SHORT CUTS is what I'll remember her for. She died earlier this week, and you can read more about her here: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/22/arts/music/annie-ross-dies.html