Only Julie

What do the words "only human" mean to you?

Only human. We all make mistakes, we are only human. We all want the same things. Love. Comfort. Security. Knowledge. It’s “only human” to want them.  We are all more alike than many would admit. We are all the same. Human. We fight to leave the “only” out because we want to “only” be remembered. We want an extraordinary life only we can achieve. That is human.

What are you passionate about?

The arts. Theatre. Directing shows. Teaching theatre. I’ve taught acting, directing, playwriting, and even some music. I’m supposed to teach a playwriting class mid September (crosses fingers). With the arts I can help people find themselves, and their voice. I’ve helped people overcome fear, take risks, and write or perform that piece of art. Through art we can tackle those subjects close to us. Racism, homophobia, you name it. Art=healing.

What makes you the happiest?

My family. Great aunts who have guided the way. Newborns who are breathing new happiness into our life’s, shaping who we will become. Finding inner peace. Creating art. Friends. A steady job. A day off. Road trips. Finding groups that encourage love and growth. Connecting with that group, supporting happiness.

In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?

Walking. Everyday. Organizing my house. Taking each room, going slow to win the race. Taking time with each human interaction to stop, breathe, understand their point of view, and getting them to understand mine. I have been wearing hearing aids for a year now. After people struggling to talk to me, thought it would be a good idea to get help, and hear them. Life becomes easier when you can hear, then respond.

How do you keep yourself positively inspired during overwhelming times?

Not focus on myself. I’ve been lucky. I’ve worked throughout the whole pandemic. I’ve directed a show during all of this (with teens, outside, blocked 6 ft apart, wearing masks. It was epic.) I’ve been blessed to have things to keep me sane. With being ok, I’ve reached out to my co workers, who, with a simple ‘how are you?” Break down, and vent. I’ve purchased cleaning supplies for family and friends. Whoever needed it, I’d find Lysol. Keeping busy. Doing good. That’s the short answer.

What book (or books) have greatly influenced your life?

I’ve just revisited “To Kill A Mockingbird”.

What would be your advice to a human who just graduated from high school and was about to enter the "real world"?

It will be fine. You will be ok. Make this world a better place.