Edition 2
Issue 2 – Aug 2020
Review
Since our first edition of Open Door, the world has gone through some global and historical changes. In fact, we still are going through them. Changes are happening, our outdated paradigm is crumbling to rubble. Things and people we took for granted have been seen through new eyes of respect and need. Old ways of thinking and complacency have been tested beyond anything we could have imagined. People are taking a stand, saying No.
The question now is, what do we want instead?
Who do we want to be, as a human race?
Who do you want to be?
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A wounded patriarchy is still in control of the majority of the world’s power. It is up to the men of the world to stand united against this patriarchy alongside women.
It is our responsibility as men to allow this shaking of our world and of our souls to enable change. Without change, without conscious thought, we will only get more of what we already have, which is no longer working; did it ever?
I am so proud to be a part of this movement, this magazine, this organisation.
Here at Open Door, we have welcomed back some of our columnists and we are also introducing some new faces to the family.
I have had the privilege to have read each and every article, you will not be disappointed.
In Ben Gad-Briggs article, ‘Reflection: How the Surge in Black Lives Matter Movement Made Me Re-examine My Black Experience in the UK,’ he talks frankly about his personal experiences of racism in the UK. It is vital that we all listen and learn from our brothers and sisters of colour. A phrase mentioned within this article is ‘micro aggressions,’ this is a key start in how we deal with racism, identifying and calling out these infractions.
‘Conscious Uncoupling: A Mindful Breakup,’ is a thoughtful and heartfelt article by Jasryan Rai, our front cover model. Some of the points articulated can easily be used within a relationship, not just a breakup. A must read for anyone going through a relationship crisis or breakdown; or maybe this could be the breakthrough you needed?
During lockdown, a child in my class, year four, asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, yea right, like that’s ever going to happen. In his article, ‘Big Shoes and Footsteps,’ Eddie Teale describes beautifully how some of us have always been destined to walk a different path to the rest of the family and peers. Likewise, for me, art for Eddie is an imperative part of his life. This article has inspired me to walk my own path of creation.
I must admit, reading, ‘Dance Theatre Helped Me Cope with Lockdown,’ quickened my pulse. His lyrical and poetic words resonated with me deeply. The power of transcendence awakened by dance and movement and by the storytelling magic of music is second to none. There is trouble all over the world, maybe Isaac Ouro-Gnao can help persuade you to shift your perspective through dance theatre?
My own article is an account of my personal journey to parenthood. This is no ordinary journey though; this is an account of my souls’ journey through the mythic planes to parenthood. A journey of self-discovery and an honouring of the Divine Masculine within. ‘A Hero’s Journey,’ by me, Daniel Cox, a horned father of one feral angel.
The raw and authentic voice of Rhys Brook Holloway has to be admired. In his article, ‘Like Father, Like Son,’ Rhys describes the inner landscape of his heart so beautifully. His relationship with his father is not unique, however it is a relationship story that is quite a hidden topic within the male community. I feel honoured to have read this article and it has made me reflect on my own relationship with my son.
There is a tragic wounding that happens to young boys, it particularly happens when they are told to ‘man up.’ The wounding happens when we are taught that winning is the most and only important thing. We are not taught about reality and truth and that sometimes we do not win, and that’s ok too. James Bargeron’s article, ‘Failing Forward – Embracing Failure,’ is a real-life account of this significant lesson.
Kwame Opoku once again has given food for thought. In his article, ‘Attachment vs Detachment: Understanding the Difference in Relationships,’ Kwame articulates the difference between attachment and detachment within relationships, an interesting point I found was regarding secure attachment in children. I can see reflections within myself, with the children I support at work and more importantly, my own son. An article we should all read.
There is something mesmerising about the way Jonathan Watts writes about current affairs and links between history. We are indeed in a unique time. The importance and global need to not only take a stand, but to fully embody and speak our truths is the key to our success as a race. Jonathan’s article, ‘Giordano Bruno: Standing for Our Beliefs and Challenging the Status Quo,’ will certainly give you the fire to do just this. Time for me is cyclical, maybe we can all learn from Giordano Bruno and speak our truth?
Men, I challenge you to re-evaluate your past. Challenge your perceptions of those around you and your own personal projections. I challenge you to stand tall and speak your truth, from your heart. Create and be inspired, be it through art or music or dance or poetry.
And please, share your heart, fiercely, embracing the fear you may feel.
Daniel Cox
Yann W. Tanoé: Open Door Head Editor Editorial Team: Yann W. Tanoé, Daniel Cox and Antoinette Hewitt – Cover Design: Yann W. Tanoé, Daniel Cox and JP Kusmin –
Contributors: Yann W. Tanoé, Daniel Cox, Rhys Brook Holloway, Jasryan Rai, Isaac Ouro-Gnao, Peter Wood, Jonathan Watts, Wilfried Willey
Yann W. Tanoé 