As the clock ticks closer to March 1, 2024, my official launch date, I am overwhelmed by a mix of excitement and nerves.ย Crafting this project has been both fun and daunting at times. Some nights, I question my sanity for exposing myself by sharing such an ambitious creative endeavor, especially one that I have grappled with for over a decade now. Do I finally have enough command of this story to share it? Will I even be ready in time to launch?!? Yet, in vulnerability, we find the essence of our Humanity, and in that regard, this is exactly the challenge I have committed myself to. Of course, I have high hopes for this project. I want it to be impactful, challenging, and rewarding. But above anything else, I want the opportunity to share myself and my creativity with others authentically. That being said, I extend this sneak peek of Humanity Law as a token of gratitude for those joining me on this journey to witness the growth and depth of my own Humanity.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Neshamah Crosby-Jones
Voices of Humanity:
To Share your weakness is to make yourself vulnerable; to make yourself vulnerable is to show your strength. - Crissi Jami
Humanity In A Flash [Fiction]:
Step Into The Light
By Neshamah Crosby-Jones
[Featuring Raven McNeal From Humanity Law: A Serialized Novel]
I'm surprised when it's James Bell, a trusted comrade whose hand tugs me back by my elbow. The last time he pulled me in close to him, he was trying to talk me into something foolish, not out of it.
"We'll find another route to the well," he says, pressing his head hard against mine as if to force better sense into me.
"No, James. There's no time for detours," I shake him off. "Every second we waste is another drop of hope evaporating for our people."
"Hope? Raven, you think seeing the strong among us killed or worse is going to inspire hope? Think about what exposing our situation could do! If word spreads that sickness is spreading in our camp or that our numbers are dropping, every scavenger and looter for miles will be at our doorstep ready to pick off the last little bit of whatever we have left. We can't afford to let them see us vulnerable, not now."
I jerk away from his grip, meeting his eyes with fiery determination. โWe canโt afford not to, James; ten more lives slipped away this morning. Six of them innocent children, and all because we can't keep them hydrated while their bodies fight off a simple fever. No! No more hiding in the shadows. The other camps need to know we're willing to work together, that we're stronger if we unite. If we don't find common ground now, there won't be any camps left to protect. Not for any of us. His hold weakens, though not enough to release. "Do you really think theyโre any better off than us?" I say, laying my hand on top of his. "Weโre all hiding ourselves, James, and someone has to be the first to step into the light.โ
He searches my eyes, a mixture of fear and understanding in his gaze. For a moment, the weight of responsibility hangs heavy between us. Then, he sighs, relenting, โDamn your hope, Raven. It has no place in these times,โ He closes his eyes. โI'm with you. But let's find a way to present our case without revealing too much."
I nod in agreement, a small victory in our shared struggle. The camp may not understand my urgency, but time is a luxury we can no longer afford. I push forward, James at my side, ready to face the dangers that await outside our fragile refuge. The path forward may lead us through treacherous territory, but it's a risk we must take to ensure the survival of humanityโฆ
Challenge To Humanity:
Embracing Vulnerability With Self:
For the upcoming week, embark on a personal journey by crafting seven love letters addressed to yourself. The unique challenge here is to focus on aspects that you feel others may struggle to appreciate or aspects you believe might be challenging for others to love about you. This exercise encourages self-reflection and acceptance, fostering a deeper understanding of your own vulnerabilities and strengths.
Embracing Vulnerability With Others:
This week, grant yourself the freedom to show up in the world authentically. Whether engaging in a conversation with a stranger or navigating interactions with friends and family, allow yourself to share your true thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. By embracing vulnerability in your connections with others, you create opportunities for genuine connections and meaningful relationships.
Want to support Humanity Law: A Serialized Novel?
๐ Add us to your contacts so you never miss an edition.
๐ฃ Share Humanity Law: A Serialized Novel with family & friends who will enjoy it!
โจ Upgrade your subscription to access chapter installments of the serialized novel every month, or Become a Citizen Subscriber to unlock a more interactive experience.