How often do you make the most of being a citizen? Do you ever think about the perks? What are some ways you can make the most of the benefits that you are entitled to?

Ponder with me, if you will, the public spaces adjacent to where you reside. If you are a city dweller, you probably have access to parks, squares, river quays or seasides. Libraries, museums, and community centers also come to mind.

If the countryside is more your milieu, you might have access to hiking trails, river bottoms, viewpoints, or open-space preserves. Nature is close at hand.

In every country or corner of the world, you will find these in-between environments. Places where citizens like you are free to wander or congregate and simply enjoy the pleasures of being part of the public.

Of course, sometimes the more famous spots are frequented by crowds of tourists, especially if they hold historical value or are notable in some cultural way. Yet many other spaces are practically abandoned.

What is it that makes these sorts of places so special? It's the fact that they belong to you. It's where you, Jane or John Q. Public, are free to be citizens rather than consumers.

Being a citizen implies taking an active role in civilization. Whereas being a consumer simply means taking part in commerce.

Public spaces, be they wild and natural, or grand and civic, offer the opportunity for people to simply enjoy life. Having a picnic for example. Dive deep into a conversation while strolling with a friend. Letting your kids or grandkids run wild. Or sitting in total solitude with a gripping book.

How about hosting an outdoor dance? This week we found ourselves exploring the banks of the Seine in Paris and stumbled across three different lovely semi-circular cutouts along the banks that were like miniature amphitheaters.

Right there under the open air with the tourist boats passing by we witnessed a salsa class, a swing dance, and what appeared to be a cha-cha themed birthday party all making the most of the public riverside.

While it seemed like the groups were probably organized in advance, there was nothing stopping passerby's from mimicking the movements and joining in from the edges.

What clicked for me as I witnessed all of this wonderful activity was the idea that what makes a public space come to life is real live citizens doing living activities in it.

Perhaps opportunity is knocking outside your front door? Can you think of ways to add your secret sauce of humanity to the public spaces you're entitled to in your vicinity?

There's more to being a citizen than just voting and paying taxes. Our shared spaces are meant to be lived in, so bring your body and embody the public good.

Much love till next Monday!

Merci et à bientôt!

M+

ML #637

Mark Metz
Monday Love
Music & Movement Calendar