Why I'm Not in Kansas City

This week the National Storytelling Conference is taking place in Kansas City, and hundreds of storytellers from across the country--and possibly from around the world--are gathering to share stories, techniques, ideas and to just be together. It's a gathering of the tribe, and I am not there.

I haven't been to the conference in a long time. Ten years to be exact. In the past the conference moved around the country, highlighting the storytelling of a different region each year. Now that the headquarters of the member organization has moved to Kansas City as their permanent home, the conference has been staying in one place. It's a good idea, saving money and planning and probably a lot of headaches.

I have nothing against Kansas City. I am sure it's an awesome place with lots to see and do. And I miss the fellowship and fun of being with a gang of storytellers. Let me tell you, there are no dull moments in such a crowd! But I'm not there, and this is why.

As Dorothy said, "There's no place like home." For her, home was Kansas. For me, it's right here in West Virginia: on my porch, with my husband and pets, my flowers and gardens and birds. It's the place I can stay in touch with the flood recovery efforts in this beloved state, where I stay rooted with all that grounds my storytelling. One year I will again make the trek to join my storied friends, but for now, here is where I want and need to be.

Copyright Susanna Holstein. All rights reserved. No Republication or Redistribution Allowed without attribution to Susanna Holstein.