Secret Rage (Dallas Texas, USA) ~ I Choose Freedom This is an interactive 3D capsule that shows some of the places where people I have met and grown to know well since joining Second Life live in their real worlds. My Story: The year 2005 was when my world changed from all it had been previously. My Mother passed away in September. In November I bit into an apple that subsequently landed me in the hospital with a bad infection~which damaged my heart. Early in 2006, due to just one income in our home, we lost it. My body was on a bad spiral... On the outside, no one could see the problems that had manifested, which in some ways was as bad as what was happening to me on the inside. After testing I was found to have over 75 allergies, a compromised immune system, congestive heart failure and fibromyalgia. My workplace no longer had employment for me in the condition in which I found myself. Needless to say, after having been healthy, active, fit and employed all of my life this was a very bitter pill to swallow. My social life went from very involved to non-existent. My creativity level in any artistic medium was zero. Though I tried to remain the positive person I am, it was very, very difficult. In 2010, a friend told me about Second Life. At first I didn't know about all the creative possibilities, just the social aspects. It was wonderful! I could connect with people again! And not just with people in the US, but all over the world! It was amazing... In my real life I very rarely leave my home. In Second Life I can travel the world! Then I was introduced to a very patient man who saw my desire to build. He taught me the basics of building and let me go. He was and still is in my life as a mentor and friend. I spent hours and hours perfecting the skills it takes to be able to express myself in this medium. It is sheer joy to be able to do so. In Second Life I am involved in so many activities it seems that I am not disabled at all, because in here, I am not. I am part of a vital and growing community of creative energy that gives everyone an equal opportunity to shine. The reason I created this piece in the manner I did was to show the scope of my friendships. I have learned so much about geography, customs, time zones, art and life in general by being a resident of Second Life and this was the only way I could think of to show that span... the butterflies, sounds, and flying are for the joy I have found in my life. It is not just a place to go... it is a place to be FREE. Though there are exceptions, largely it is a closely knit community of people from all over the world who not only know each other and are able to work as cohesive units in group projects, but TRULY care about each other too. It is someplace from which the real word should take lessons. The following is the most important part of this story: Don't even begin to feel sorry for me or my conditions. I have found my joy again! I live here. I am proud of this world and of the people I call my FRIENDS. ~ Secret Rage
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