I was thinking back to my dissertation today. What a journey of discovery! If I had known in advance where it would have led me, it would have been much quicker to complete and far less stressful. But it would not have been original, exciting, or a discovery. I would not have found out that creativity could be such a powerful force that it could help people overcome both the stigma and the condition of homelessness.
The process of ethnography is slow, because you come to the table with some questions to explore rather than a theory to prove or disprove. You go through layers of observation, discussions, participation in the events and environment of the people you are involved with. I could use the experience of this process as a kind of compass to guide me in my life. I find out so much from being with people. Insight becomes easier, despite my inclination towards a more introverted, introspective life. Message to myself – collaborate!
