Community Builder & NFT Poet: Jack Wardale

Jack Wardale (@Wardalejack) introduced me to the NFT community on Twitter when I stumbled onto a YouTube interview conducted by Brick Astly. From the interview, I learned that Jack is passionate about community building, the study of interpersonal gratitude, and publishing poetry as NFTs. In his interview, he so eloquently commented on hosting safe, inclusive Spaces and cultivating an environment based on "diversity, compassion, love, and support." He shared his views on practicing gratitude for others, building community, and facilitating meaningful conversations to drive positive changes. Check out this interview to meet Jack and learn more on his vision as a mental health advocate and a community leader: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBmdcDP1irI. Jack's words motivated me to reach out to him in an act of both curiosity and courage. As soon as I found him on Twitter, I realized he was hosting one of the "safe & inclusive" Spaces he had explained. I cannot describe the excitement and energy I felt upon entering that 'room' and listening to the encouragement, support, and empathy expressed among speakers. I was content to listen in wonder, but suddenly, I heard my name, "Hi Jodi Suzann, I see you". Another host of the space, Lori Grace (@Lorigraceaz), an extreme weather photographer, acknowledged me and made me feel welcome, rather than lost in a crowded room. I felt more SEEN in that moment than I had felt in a long time. I was so excited that without hesitation, I requested to speak. Honestly, I have no idea what I said in that moment, but I felt so accepted and understood that I just wanted to express gratitude and share a little bit of my heart & my story. There were definitely tears! Both Jack & Lori responded to my spontaneous outpour of emotions with compassion, concern, and grace. In that very space, for me, Jack became the legend who led me home, and Lori became the one who brought me into the light, like a lightning bolt in the midst of a storm. I was no longer alone in the dark.

* Jack Wardale shares "daily thoughts" on Twitter inspiring both reflection & introspection. *