Little did I know that I would be learning a life lesson the day after our second challenge partnering with Vehicles for Change. We just spent a rigorous five weeks empathizing, ideating, and designing strategies for VFC to be implemented in Detroit. To be quite frank I was ready for the weekend. I was tired, my fellow fellows were tired, and the weekend was in sight. I didn’t foresee myself gaining greater perspective on my little world during my time at Salt and Cedar. Indeed I did. While my knowledge of the letterpress and independent publishing was non-existent before and only barely at the surface level now, my perspective on obstacles, challenges, and problems has been nurtured.
The Salt and Cedar studio is nestled in a corner of the Eastern Market, a space that welcomes artists, foodies, tourists, musicians, and people of all ages. Throughout our time there we heard the words, “Problems Worth Having”. Three simple words that couldn’t be more true. Three words that have deep meaning; especially for those of us who practice introspection and self-reflection regularly. They made me think in the moment I heard them and throughout the afternoon. In my personal and silent moment of truth, I couldn’t help but think how my life could be different. With a single thought or choice I made my life could have been different. Our lives, not just mine, could have taken any other turn…it’s important we remember that.
Why do these three words matter? “Problems Worth Having” runs deep to our cores. I am lucky to have a choice or choices. I can complain about being inconvenienced at the grocery store, a restaurant, in a car, or the fact that I can choose between any number of things to do on a given night. These, however, are not real problems. I cannot be upset for having options or choices to make, instead I should be grateful for them. All of us should be aware of our own problems that are worth having. These “problems” make life rich, full, and worth living. Or maybe my advice to you is really only advice to myself. Self, be thankful for life’s offerings.
If we apply these words to Detroit, it’s current situation, and it’s evolving progress they are even more true. Without the city’s problems being highlighted in local and national news, or in household discussions Detroit’s “problems worth having” may not have been addressed. Without the negative images or viewpoints from various mediums Detroit may not have been “bailed out”, could not have reached a court decision on its bankruptcy, or been able to recruit talented professionals, or be the next best thing since the Silicon Valley. It’s all about perspective. Problems are merely opportunities in disguise. My personal musings are just some of the things I thought about during my time at Salt and Cedar.
Don’t lose sight of your ability to learn, be mindful of others, or your numerous chances to be courteous to others. These skills can take you and others a great number of places.