COVID-19 has infected and affected so many lives in ways that make my head spin when I think about it. It is not lost on me how blessed I am that my family, friends and I are healthy and that I have a job. I know that so many are not as lucky.

The virus resulted in a chain of events that ultimately led to my friend’s decision to move back to California. I am always sad when close friends move away, but this one, in particular, felt so unfair. But, I know she is making the best decision for herself.

I really wanted to do something unique and uplifting during our last hangout. I came across these Instagram photos taken in Gowanus, an industrial part of Brooklyn and thought it would be perfect if we created our own version of this woven tape street art.

I picked up some bright orange flagging tape and headed to Gowanus early Memorial Day morning. After combing the streets to find the perfect spot, we settled on this fence covered with lush late-spring foliage on Douglas Street, across the public swimming pool. I had asked Wendy to think of a word or short phrase she wanted to weave and she did not disappoint with several great options, including ‘take risks,’ ‘trust the journey,’ and ‘reset, rethink, release.’

Both of us were nervous that a passerby would tell us to stop or, worse yet, call the cops. But, luckily the street was quiet with just a handful of few pedestrians. One guy even loitered across the street, curious to see what we were doing.

Any guesses on what we spelled out?

I simply love how this turned out. ‘Embrace change’ feels especially befitting in this moment when so many of us are feeling so uncertain. The motto reminds me of one of my favorites by Bruce Lee – ‘be like water.’ The only sure thing in life is change and sometimes we should not resist it, but lean into the sometimes uncomfortable and scary feelings that come with change knowing that on the other side we will be better for it.

I truly believe that sometimes we are forced to move on from a place, a job, a bad relationship, or a situation to make room for something greater. And, there are great things in store for you, Wendy. When I found out that we had a shared love for Oprah and Flamin Hot Cheetos a few years ago, I knew I wanted to be friends with you and I feel so blessed to call you one. I will miss your company and spirit, I wish upon you all good things in California as you recharge and begin a new chapter in your life. ♥