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    Grace
    Thursday, May 02, 2024

    Tell Me Something: Anne Kubitsky takes inspiration on the road

    Anne Kubitsky is the founder and curator of The Look for the Good Project. With humble beginnings as a local postcard initiative, The Look for the Good Project has snowballed into a worldwide network of people engaging their communities through public art on the theme of gratitude. Its slogan is "Although it may sound kinda simple and woo-woo, gratitude is serious business." In the last two years, Kubitsky has created public installations, events and school programs in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. She lives in Killingworth.

    For more information, including links to research on how gratitude benefits both the health of the individual and their community, go to: lookforthegoodproject.org or find it on Facebook.

    Say you have a modern-day high school locker. Whose picture would be hanging in it?

    My boyfriend Sean. As soon as I discovered that he actually liked lugging a bright pink gratitude door around the streets of New York City, I knew he was for me!

    What's your favorite sandwich?

    Anything from G-Zen restaurant in Branford. Everything there is delicious!

    You're locked in a museum for a night, which one would it be?

    The American Museum of Natural History in New York.

    What's your favorite word in a language other than English?

    "Namaste." I believe that means, "I honor the place in you which honors the place in you where we are one." I just love that.

    What's your favorite word for "gratitude" in a language other than English?

    I'm not sure as I don't speak many languages (normally, other people help me translate the cards that come in different languages). But no matter what language, hugs and smiles speak volumes.

    What's a movie you like, but can't convince others to like?

    I loved "Forrest Gump" but remember having a heck of a time getting my friends to see it for the fifth time.

    Who played at your the first live concert you attended?

    Billy Fischer and Out on a Whim.

    Sorry to have to tell you this, but an asteroid is going to wipe all humanity next week. So, what's your last meal and who is coming to dinner?

    I think I'd have to have a huge look for the good party and invite everyone to come. What better opportunity to look for the good and appreciate the little time we have left as humans. As far as food - I think I'd ask everyone to bring their favorite dish so that each person was able to eat a meal they loved.

    Name an item you can't live without:

    My computer.

    Item you should live without and keep meaning to get rid of:

    I have an old vegetable juicer that needs a new home. It's sitting by the front door waiting for me to take it to someone who can fix it and show it a little love.

    You're a DJ at club. What's the night's last song?

    I am really loving the song "Happy" by Pharrell Williams right now. I actually play it at some of my presentations to set the mood. So I'd probably play that.

    What's the last television show you binge-watched?

    "Modern Family." It's honest, hysterical and entertaining all at once. Great writers!

    If you present day you could give advice to younger you, what would it be?

    Don't worry so much. Every failure and painful experience is important in your development. Take the time to experience it and soften into the full spectrum of your emotions. It helps you let go and move on.

    Last book you couldn't put down:

    Honestly - my last book: "What Makes You Grateful: Voices From Around the World." After compiling a couple hundred submissions in the book, I finally had a chance to catch my breath and appreciate the many beautiful images and essays that people sent to me. Sometimes - when you are working so closely on something - it's easy to overlook its beauty. When you finally have a chance to step back, it's like "Oh my God! How beautiful! And how lucky I am to be a part of this!"

    What's a word you can never spell correctly on the first try:

    Restaurant.

    Coffee or tea?

    Coffee. Get up with it every morning.

    Saturday night or Sunday morning?

    Sunday morning snuggles are the best. Coffee, eggs from the farm, and listening to NPR.

    Soduku or Crossword?

    Crossword.

    Anagrams or palindromes?

    Palindromes.

    What is your pet peeve?

    I can't think of one ... maybe being indecisive?

    What historical event in you like to have witnessed?

    My mother and grandparents missed the Dresden bombing by 24 hours. Even though they had just arrived in the city and my grandmother was exhausted - fleeing World War II and caring for two small children - my grandfather had this deeper sense that they had to leave. Everyone laughed at him but he pressed on and got the family to safety before the first bombs dropped. I wish I could have been there at the moment when my grandfather just knew they had to leave, despite the lack of evidence. I think that must have been a very powerful moment for him. Without it, I wouldn't be here!

    What is your favorite place in Connecticut to recharge and/or find serenity?

    Hammonasset Beach State Park. That's why I am installing a gratitude trail along the boardwalk this summer. I want to give people a good reason to visit the most beautiful park in the state - and get grateful doing it!

    Who alive today do you most admire?

    There are too many people to count! But as far as authors go, I love Brene Brown. She is such an inspiration to me.

    ~~~

    Tell Me Something is a weekly Q&A spotlighting interesting people doing interesting things. If you or someone you know would like to be profiled, email f.parenteau@theday.com

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