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Dylbo Baggins's avatar

Really resonated with this. I keep looking for a good word that holds the idea of humanity being more important than ever. I believe it's what we're all starving for, even when we're unaware of it. The closest I've gotten is "aliveness." Whatever it is, I agree with you wholeheartedly.

This also reminds me of Wendell Berry and the story his daughter Mary tells in the appropriately named documentary "Look & See." Have you seen it?

Elaine McMillion Sheldon's avatar

Thank you! I have see Look & See but it’s been years! I should revisit.

Millie's avatar

hi Elaine! I’m a southern documentarian and this (and all your work) resonates with me so deeply. This is such a beautiful speech- thank you for sharing on here.

Jeanette Stokes's avatar

Thank you so much for the talk and the film. Thanks for sharing WVA and the culture of coal with so many of us.

Sam Scott's avatar

Loved this Elaine. It feels urgent to me as a storyteller (did documentary for a while. Haven’t retired but I’m

Writing more these days).

And I respond to that urgency with a sense of “I’m missing out not doing this. Not telling stories like this.”

But I think that’s missing the point. Slow down. Sit with. Embrace. I hear that in your words.

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Jun 8, 2025
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Elaine McMillion Sheldon's avatar

I'm happy to chat anytime - email me through my website https://www.elainemcmillionsheldon.com/contact