Conscious Choice Seattle: Movin' and Shakin'

December 2006 | From the Editor

Movin' and Shakin'

By Ritzy Ryciak

Maybe it is my native bias, but I do believe that Seattle is a special place that attracts phenomenal people.

Since moving back 3 years ago, I have had the opportunity as a writer and photographer to meet Northwest movers and shakers in settings—gardens, kitchens, bus stops—as diverse and colorful as the people themselves.

The characters and stories have varied over the years, but the energizing feeling of talking to someone with an eye to the greater good, and a commitment to a vision larger than him or herself, has been a consistent thread.

This month’s local feature, Dr. David Korten, is no exception.

“His countenance beams calm as he begins,” writes author Charles Shaw, editor of Chicago’s Conscious Choice, in his description of Korten. “It’s going to be OK, his eyes speak softly, we’ll get through this … all of it,”

Shaw’s depiction of this Seattle-based author and activist is right on target. In August, I photographed Korten at his home on Bainbridge Island, and came away with a similar impression, and a visceral belief that stories can change the world.

“Will we interpret this crossroads as the terminal crisis of the species or an epic opportunity to create the world we want?” asks Shaw, reiterating some of the questions Korten poses in his book, The Great Turning. “Korten believes our decision will depend on the stories by which we make sense of what is happening, and begin to recognize the choices that are ours to make. But the central message is that ‘business as usual’ is over.”

November’s elections helped affirm that, and here’s hoping that the New Year brings some political resolutions aimed at losing debt and gaining hope.

Following this national trend of change, things are also happenin’ here at Conscious Choice. We have brought on some great new writers, and expanded our focus with two new columns.

Locally Yours, written by Seattle-based nutritionist Jennifer Adler, is a column committed to the medicinal, nutritional and historical benefits of eating food from our own Northwest backyard. Ever considered oysters as an effective food to combat the common cold? Adler gives plenty of reasons to incorporate these tasty bivalves into your winter diet.

Sticking with the Northwest focus, Escape the Pace, written by travel writer Crai S. Bower, is dedicated to getaways that help you unwind and truly leave the rat race behind.
Then there’s me.

As the new editor of CC, (taking over the reins from the esteemed Mr. Bob Condor), it is my hope and goal to keep these pages as energized, current and alive as the people and places they depict.

We live in an incredible city filled with people doing extraordinary things. Every year the farmers’ markets multiply, businesses go greener and greener and citizen concern and action grows.

In true Korten spirit, I look forward to spreading the stories that can help each of us make sense of what is happening, and allow us to recognize that the future choices are ours to make.

That said, I want to hear from you. These stories are your stories, and I hope that you will feel free to contact me with ideas and suggestions. Please drop me a note.

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