State of the Dojo - COVID-19 Lockdown

Hey peeps, DJ MK here.

This period has been a difficult time for all of us, especially in the nerd community. Between cancelled conventions, delayed media releases, and more packages and titles than we thought we had to deal with, the overwhelm is real. And then there's of course the genuine struggles, fears, and losses we've experienced along the way.

It's been over three weeks since my state shut down. In some ways, I feel like I'm taking on the role of Simon Itani from Blackout - trying to make sense of all of this while at the same time trying to provide comfort to my audience through whatever means I feel confident in. (Side-note: Blackout is a podcast I highly recommend along with Homecoming and Bronzeville)

In terms of activities besides the livestreams, I'm participating in Camp NaNoWriMo writing some new fiction. I'm also learning Japanese and the piano as well as retraining my voice so that I'll have some awesome burnout free karaoke times by the time I get out of here. I'm not sure how frequently I'll update the site but I'll be sure to communicate as often as I can on here.

Here's an awesome quote from Kate Mulgrew in her recent letter to fans (proud to say I'm one of them) -

In this time of extraordinary challenge, exercise your right to be deeply human. Be surprised by your own generosity of spirit. Don’t be afraid of fear, confusion or anxiety. We are living through an Unknown Pandemic, and we have every right to be unsettled.

 It's okay to feel what you feel right now. It's okay to not always know what steps to take or which direction to face. Now is the time to be patient and ease up. In the midst of the chaos and uncertainty, remind yourself of the things you do feel sure about even if they are temporary. If you can't come up with things, it's okay. Allow others to do it for you. There are helpers out there. If you're one of them - whether you're a first responder, retailer, delivery person or just donating a meal to a neighbor or the small amount of funds to research, I salute you.

Stay safe, be aware, and know that there is support when you need it. Take it easy everybody and of course, may your heart be your guiding key.

<3 DJ MK