Woven Through Generations
Monica Zavala (Gabrielino/Tongva Nation, Acjachemen, and Mexican)
acrylic on canvas. 15” x 30”
When we engage in the art of hair braiding, we infuse it with the purity of our intentions, a gesture that takes on profound significance when it's the tresses of a beloved individual we weave. The act of braiding becomes a powerful symbol, as we intertwine three sections of hair, each one representing the mind, the body, and the spirit.
In my youth, my mother would lovingly braid my hair, creating cherished moments that have left an indelible mark on my heart. As the passage of time bestows maturity, I find myself continuing this timeless tradition by tenderly braiding her hair. In this cycle, we bridge the generations, preserving this beautiful connection that transcends both time and space. The hands that perform this act of love and tradition are mine, as I braid my mother's hair, perpetuating the legacy of our shared bond.
1/15/2025
What is going on? I'm on my phone more. I'm not doing the steps. Sleep is lacking. I'm not getting into motion. Discipline is falling apart in my mind. My thoughts are not positive. Why? How? When?
It's too much again? But last week it wasn't.
Brick by brick! 🧱
Ok. Long time since I've posted.
I had some great weeks working out three times a week. Awesome!
Not so great with house work and even got behind in school work. But, I'm caught back up and trying to maintain again.
Let's see how this week goes.
Emergency after emergency the last few weeks. Have I really not been paying attention?
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Longest video I’ve ever made and still barely scratched the surface. The Tongva (also called the Kizh) occupied an area the size of Rhode Island for thousands of years and still are not federally recognized. Sources: The First Angelinos by William McCawley, Ancient LA by Michael Jacob Rochlin, Rancho Los Cerritos, Mapping Indigenous LA, State of California Native American Heritage Commission, Jonah Valdez/LA Times, Sara Lin/LA Times, Melissa Gomez/LA Times, Wikipedia
Greg Ruben
Haven't worked out all week. I did write a short story. Didn't write my report. Kinda lost.
I am an immigrant to the land of the Tongva, aka the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians.
Californians know this area as Los Angeles County, Orange County and the Channel Islands.
There's many photos and videos teaching and sharing their history and traditions on the website linked above. Here's one.