Tina Chang
Meeting the children of Still Waters in a Storm has left an indelible mark on me. We spent an afternoon discussing spirits, ghosts, faith, and belief in the unknown world. What impacted me most about this group of children is how soulful they were and I noted an immensely mature outlook on the world which has most certainly been effected by the economic growth of New York City. This growth has had its downsides in that it’s forced families out who do not have the financial resources to keep up with the ferocious pace of real estate and commerce, most of whom are immigrant families. Still Waters in the Storm plays a vital role in Brooklyn as well as New York City as a whole. Here, children are seen, heard, respected. They are asked to listen to one another, create, write, and to be forthright in their expression. They are encouraged to live wholeheartedly within and also to support their community. Still Water’s existence proves there is still creativity, joy, kindness, strength, and tenacity amidst the fast past and expansive city that has changed so much since I was a girl. Visiting for an afternoon with Stephen Haff and these beautifully imaginative young writers reminded me that we, as citizens, can play an active role in the betterment of lives of those who live closest to us. We also have within our power, through word and action, a way to help keep the imagination fiercely alive.