Sage and Crystals Magazine Spring/Summer 2022

Issue 04 SPring/Summer 2022

CONNECT In

Celbrating pride | Creating Community spaces | Summer Produce | Summer Energetics | Restorative Rest | Beauty of Diversity | Finding community | Ethnic Dishes around the grid | Kiyori Estates |Ren Matsura

Thank you

to all of our models and contributors:

Coral Lacey Tink Hax nashish.muhindra Alanamarie90 Wilhelmina Oatsmill V3n0mz Noble Bren Kenin Jasmine Kiyori Ren Matsura Stevie Basevi Truelifeambition Zai Starchild Andrewkyle90 Vrutega Vega Jihyun Vespoli

tABLE OF c A Letter from The Collective Celebrating Pride in the Virtual Space Ethnic Dishes Around the Grid Summer Season Produce Spring-Summer Energetics Creating Community Spaces Adventures with Amethyst: French Guiana and Le Chateau

cONTENTS The Making of Kiyori Estates Finding Community in the Virtual World Restorative Rest in the Virtual Space Through the Photographic Lens: Ren Matsura The Beauty of Diversity Spotlight: Community Involvement with Stevie Basevi Tarot Astrology with Ametrine

H

A Letter From the Collective: Broadening your perspective

ow do you enhance your experiences within our glorious in-world environment? Our experiences have a tremendous influence on growth and receptivity. Feeling safe enough to be outwardly engaged (yes, even for introverts!) can be extremely rewarding, especially when seeking connections with others, community, and finding your “tribe.”

beyond the real-life environment you already know. When perspectives and experiences are shared openly, without fear or judgment, and not from a place of control, it can create a change within you or create a new way of looking at people and the environment.

What changes will you make this summer to broaden your perspective or open yourself to finding community? Stay well, enjoy the warmth of the sunshine, and take good care of yourself. Remember, be kind to the souls you meet along the way.

As we move into the blessings that summer has in store for us, remember that we are energetically moving away from those things that no longer serve us. If we are open, this approach may allow us to dive into new situations, people, places, and things that may be foreign to us. Still, it can Thanks for spending time with us. be beneficial and enlightening to our perLove and Blessings, sonal, individual expansion.

Sure it’s easy to stay in your comfort zone versus navigating anything new because it’s safe. But one of the greatest gifts of broadening your perspective could lead to increased tolerance, understanding, cultural awareness, and the removal of the errors of stereotyping. An unbiased approach devoid of ignorance can create space for acceptance and exposure to something brand new.

We believe that Second Life ® offers the platform to see, learn, explore, and experience

The Collective

Notice and Disclaimer. “Second Life® is a trademark of Linden Research, Inc. Sage and Crystals is not affiliated with or sponsored by Linden Research.”

Celebrate

Pride with

Sage & Crystals

Celebrati in the virt

Interview Photos courtesy of G

ing Pride tual space

w by Topaz Geena Carminucci

O

ne of the great things about virtual living is that even when things come to a halt in real-life, as we witnessed in 2020, we can still live virtually. Two Second Life® residents came up with a way to celebrate Pride Month even though we were stuck inside. Pride at Home, or “PAH,” started in 2020 as a discount shop and hop event. If you are unsure what a shop and hop event is, you teleport to the participating main stores that have discounted pridethemed items for 99L. This went so well the first year that in 2021 it expanded by adding the beautifully crafted Pride at Home sim. The sim has a wide variety of Pride-themed activities held throughout June. There are also many spaces to visit, from the festival space for parties and live concerts, the memorial garden for the candlelight vigil, the booth area with many free gifts, the many buildings highlighting LGBT+ topics, to the colorful impressive float parade!

In this article, we sit down with longtime Second Life® residents and Pride at Home’s founders, Tinker Hax and Coral Lacey, who tell us what inspired the idea for Pride at Home and why spaces like this are essential for our Second Life® community.

What is the mission/goal of the PAH sim?

Tink: Originally, the goal was simply to be able to bring everyone

together during COVID, in which real-life pride celebrations were canceled, and to have a place to celebrate in-world! Since starting it, we have learned that there are many other reasons to keep it going, not everyone can celebrate in real-life for a multitude of reasons, and this is a safe place in which people can be welcomed and be their true selves.

chance to experience real-life really resonated with me as Pride celebrations for many I had also found myself in different reasons. that situation for many years.

Second Life® was an outlet Why was it important to for me in that sense, which create a space for PAH? helped a lot in itself. But, What does the PAH sim being able to give people a mean to you both on a per- safe space to celebrate takes sonal level? it to another level, and I’m not going to lie; it makes me Tink: On a personal level, quite emotional.

I think it is excellent for it to be owned by two female In what ways can Second members of the LGBTQ+ Life® residents support community. Much like PAH’s mission? (Charity Coral: Exactly what Tink real-life, I think LGBTQ+ donations, sim donations, said. At first, during COVID, places are often more aimed event participation, etc.). we thought it would be nice toward men, sometimes to do something to bring a leaving women or nonbinary Tink: We chose not to take little cheer, and since there people feeling outnumbered. donations inworld for a hadn’t been a Pride-themed Pride at Home has a much couple of reasons. First of all, shopping event on the grid more balanced ratio of men/ I prefer every penny to get to before, it seemed like a good women/nonbinary/ furries the designated place. With idea. So we kept the shopand everything else in cashouts/processing fees for ping prices low and made the between! inworld transactions, it feels event accessible for creators slightly disheartening to see to participate because mon- Coral: We mentioned we a considerable chunk disapetizing it was never the goal; started this during Covid pear. Secondly, there are alwe just wanted some Pride when none of us could cele- ready a couple of merchandise to be available brate Pride in the real world. other LGBTQ+ events that for all the LGBTQ+ cuties to We talked to more people in do fundraisers every year, so dress up and have fun! the community and heard we didn’t want that to be our their stories about why they focus. However, we have creAfter the outpouring of sup- can’t celebrate in real-life. ated “Charity Boards” dotport from that first round, in Perhaps they are not out in ted throughout the sim and 2021, we decided to expand real-life, maybe they live in a placed out at the stores the event with a whole sim to small town that doesn’t have taking part in the shop and give a complete Pride ambi- Pride celebrations, or maybe hop. These show a collection ance because we quickly re- it is even outlawed in their of various LGBTQ+ focused alized not everyone gets the country. Still, these stories charities, allowing people to

click on and be directed to their official websites’ donation pages. So people can make their direct personal donations outside of Second Life®. Lastly, for all the charities we advertise, we have been in personal contact in real-life to let them know about Pride at Home and seek authorization to display their logos and make people aware of what they do.

us at one of the many events scheduled throughout the month!

Where can Second Life® residents follow all things PAH? We have an inworld group!

This is primarily active in June, where we send the shop and hop notecard out on June 1st and notices regarding events we are holding on the sim!

Tink: We have an LGBTQ+ exhibit, so if you are not clued up on the history of Pride, that is great to visit.

We have an HIV/Aids Info HUB bringing awareness to that.

And really, I think as cheesy as it may be, I hope people just learn to be accepting.

Coral: Also, check out the ballroom to learn a little about vogueing or the Coral: We also have a little Alternatively, you can follow cinema to find some clips of strip of stores on the main our Facebook page/InstaLGBTQ+ movies! street at the Pride at Home gram and add your own phosim, each dedicated to a re- tos to our Flickr group! al-life charity. Inside, you can find some info on each and There are many great spots links to their websites to do- on the Pride at Home sim. nate! Sim donations were not What’s your favorite? something we considered last year, as we hadn’t actu- Tink: I’m torn between the ally decided to keep the sim festival space and the float at that point. However, after parade. we realized its importance to the community, we chose to Coral: Me too! I am usually keep it open all year round. in the festival space or in my Therefore, we will be placsecret little spot on a rooftop ing some little pots around by the parade, people-watchthe sim this year that you can ing. donate to that will help keep the sim open for another Is there anything you hope year! residents learn from visiting the PAH sim? Or, is Apart from what we just there any educational indescribed, come and show formation/spot on the sim support by hanging out with that you’d like to highlight.

We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.

Jenny Uglow

Ethnic Dishe

Around the Grid

es

A

lthough there are many ways that people share their culture, the most common way we share experiences is through food in the real world and within the virtual world.

Second Life © creators have done a fabulous job introducing a variety of delicacies for us to enjoy and accessorize our dining tables. Likewise, let’s explore the intersection of food and culture with this round-up of culinary traditions around the grid.

We wanted to shed light on a few creations of the many different cuisines found in-world.

Taste India

of

As my sister and I sat and enjoyed the presentation of the perfectly baked naan, the white rice, and the curried dish, we enjoyed the authenticity and access to something different, such as Indian food. Although not commonly found in stores within the grid, we came across this Thali gacha, which is Hindi for “large plate.”

It’s usually referred to as different bowls of either vegetarian or omnivore content presented on a platter. Hopefully, residents will have access to more Indian cuisines on the grid to create an eclectic food presentation or experience soon.

East asian cuisine

With Asian cuisine being popular worldwide, I think it is safe to say that Asian food is a cultural unifier. Therefore, you can easily find this cuisine scattered throughout the virtual world, ready for

enjoyment. Choices from rice, and much more created Chinese, Korean, Thai, Viet- by different creators across namese, Japanese, etc., and the grid. others are readily available.

In addition, you can find everything from sushi, ramen, curry, stews, noodles, fried

African Ame soul food

erican

Similar in popularity to Asian cuisine, down-home cooking, or as some call it, Soul Food, is a cultural cuisine that is usually passed down through generations and commonly prepared by African Americans whose roots are in the southern parts of the United States. Foods like cornbread, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and much more are found inworld, especially during the holiday season. For years, creators across the grid have created their interpretations of different soul food dishes. It will be interesting to see how creators will present new soul food dishes as time progresses. Will dishes that haven’t been created be introduced, or will creators wow us with their twist on what we already know?

west african comfort

West African food has recently made its debut inworld. Authentic dishes such as Fufu, Egusi, Suya, and Jollof rice make their way into our homes to be experienced and shared amongst friends and family.

I think it’s only a matter of time before these items will be seen in role-play restaurants throughout the grid and diversified menus.

Summer Seas Prod I

Written by Amethyst

n the Northern Hemisphere, summer arrives with longer days and intense sunlight ahead. There’s no better time to have fun, get creative and experiment with the plethora of fruits and vegetables available for the season. Nothing compares to that first bite of a juicy melon on a hot day or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Here are a few fruits and vegetables that we find common around this time of year that propel us into the summer spirit.

Tomatoes

For many, tomatoes are a favorite summer fruit, that’s right!

A tomato is a fruit and not a vegetable.

Best grown between May and October in the Northern Hemisphere, this warm-weather fruit packs a lot of vitamin C and can be enjoyed in many forms- as a beverage, paste, dried, fried, fresh, as a sauce, or the primary ingredient found in salsa.

son duce

Tomatoes

Melons

Melons It is the season of melons.

You can find different melons during the hot summer months, such as cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew. With the sweetness and juiciness comes the possible nutritional benefits of folate and potassium, to name a few.

At the same time, melons hypnotize us with their beautiful vibrant hues of orange, yellow, red, green, and sometimes pink. So this season, we recommend mixing it up!

Instead of going for the usual melon salad or cut slices, try adding spiced salts, chili lime, or middle eastern flavors, such as herb-and-spice mixes or ground ginger and lemon zest.

Chili Peppers Did you know that peppers are fruit? Chili peppers flourish in hot climates with roots in Mexico and colors ranging from red, green, yellow, and sometimes black. Known for adding spice and flavor to a dish, they also add value to our life. They are known to boost metabolism and fight inflammation, to name some benefits. Try to spice up your summer dishes with chili peppers this summer. You may love it!

Chil

li Peppers

SpringEnerg

Written by Photographed

-Summer getics

y Ametrine d by Amethyst

W

inter and all its dormancy is a mere memory for us.

We’ve emerged from a period of seeming hibernation, and the promises of newness begin to feel refreshing as we stroll through the days of spring. The internal shift we feel on the cusp of impending change can be shocking because experiencing new things, thoughts, and perspectives can be uncomfortable. Still, we learn to navigate it all because of the forced introspection we experienced during winter.

Ritually, spring signals a time for deep cleaning - physically cleaning your space, body, and metaphysical nature. Standard practices could include journal writing, manifestation rituals, and creating vision boards. Many cultures practice cleansing rituals to move “bad energy” or perform renewal rituals to bring in the best luck etc., Then, summer descends upon us with its glorious, nourishing energy. The sun and the atmosphere fuel us to nurture and inspire us to go!

As you begin to feel this inner and outer awareness directly aligned with the visual changes in nature, you begin to settle down and find your groove.

What was discomfort becomes

transformative, providing some truths and direction and may become a driving force pushing you towards your potential. We may become lively, change jobs, become outwardly engaged, creative, etc. It’s a chance to let go of that which no longer serves us to allow something new into our lives. It is an opportunity for personal or collective reinvention.

Enjoy the gifts of summer. Let your actions flow, and set an intention to fully embrace a conscious period of awakening, change, and new beginning until the dawn of autumn is upon us.

Check out our Tarot Astrology page for more insight.

“When we focus on our gratitude, the tide of disappointment goes out and the tide of love rushes in.”

-Kristin Armstrong

Crea Communi with Av

ating ity Spaces venturine

The Wild

ds Co-op

Ever wanted something in the world and realized that to have it you would have to create it? If you have, you have had a Wilds Co-op moment. Love and hate were the two words that describe my relationship with this

space—however, the DETAILS matter, and for me. The Wilds allowed me to bring coop farm-to-table living to SL. This location is outfitted with organic, grass-fed products.

From the meat shop, and the wine pairing

options, to the on-the-go coffee area and the cut-your-own herb area, this space is a testament to a world of appreciation for what mother earth provides.

Soon to be open to the public, the list of credits is too long to name. If you have any questions about any of the spaces featured in this issue, feel free to ask on our Facebook page or in our inworld group.

flea ma

market

This space features several shops and treasures that tell a story of discovery. From the dirt road to the variety of shopping spaces, this place hits the mark. A carefree day of shopping in the spring and summer

months, each booth provided layers to the space. Would you believe most of the items are old gacha items? They were collecting dust in my file cabinet. There was a good inventory cleanup recommended by our Ed-

itor-in-Chief, Amethyst, after this assignthis journey with us, I offer you the opportument. But, I have to admit that finding these nity to get in your inventory and shake a few treasures again inspired me to clean my in- folders. Then, see what you come up with. ventory and create something new. So to the readers of our magazine who have continued

Serendip

pity farms

There’s a farm just up the road from our flea market, which seems forgotten by its trimmings but is hearty in its livestock. Imagine a child taking a swing from the old oak tree while the farmer catches the baby chick cu-

riously playing around the water pump. The whole family works off the land, cultivating the riches of Gaia as she showcases her bounty. For me, that was the inspiration for this space. They were selling their harvest-

ed goods right outside their land while the readers as we all marvel at what our world goose family made their way down the dirt can create from our ingenuity. road. Serenity is more than the name of the farm. It is the feeling this location evokes. At the same time, inspiring a journey for our

Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.” —John Lubbock

A wit F

Adventures th Amethyst: French Guiana & Le Chateau

M

any may not know, but Mainland has hidden gems tucked away throughout the virtual continents on the grid. Of course, you have to know where to look. Feeling adventurous, I decided to pack a small suitcase and take a trip to French Guiana and Le Chateau for a few days.

After landing in French Guiana, I was in-

stantly seduced by the vast and lush jungle.

As I walked down the road, I imagined that I had fanned my face, trying to find relief from the rainforest heat and humidity. While walking down the road lined with ferns sprouting through the dirt and rocks, I admired how the thick jungle hugged the pastel-colored colonial architecture that sat

alongside the road. Finally, I hopped on a scooter to explore more of the Amazon paradise, hoping that the wind from the bike ride would provide comfort from the unbearable heat.

Second Life Railroad (SLRR) station sat hauntingly amongst the flora. Its vast tracks reached out as a lifeline to the rest of Mainland. As I continued my drive, looking for my place of residence for the evening, I passed faintly colored wooden bungalows Driving up the road and taking in the sights, hidden amongst the largely untamed tropical I instantly thought about the miracles of na- trees. I found my spot and then planned my ture and how we coexist alongside it. The itinerary for the next day.

The next day, I took a bike ride over to La Chateau, which sits on the outskirts of the Amazon rainforest. As I exited through a tunnel, I immediately turned left. I headed into a beautiful gated community with a mid-century modern white mansion tucked behind the wrought iron gates. It had somewhat of a 1980’s retro vibe to it. I exited the roundabout and headed towards a different part of the community, which led me to an overlook. A stunning view of La Chateau’s Marina, which connected the bay, lay before me. I squinted behind my shades and caught a glimpse of the yacht club down below.

Hopping on my bike, I made my way down the dirt road to have a closer look. As I made the last turn coming down the hill, I was put on the beach in front of many different-sized houseboats and yachts. Each one ranged in different colors with creative outside decor, all unique in their own way.

Parking my bike near the pier, I shuffled through the hot sand in my sandals and made my way to the yacht club.

The yacht club had a retro 1980’s Floridian vibe. Surrounded by floral and bold pastel-colored walls and furniture, I felt I had warped back into time.

I ordered a mint mojito and sat down to enjoy the view. As I began taking a couple of selfies and snapping a shot of my beautifully made drink, I had already thought about planning to visit again.

E

Explore the Grid!

the making of

In Conversation wi

Written and photogr

Kiyori Estates

ith Jasmine Kiyori

raphed by Moonstone

J

asmine Kiyori, the founder of Kiyori Estates, has created some of the most exciting destinations in Second Life®, including the Kiyori sims, Santorini, and various “Airbnb-like” properties throughout Mainland. Since 2018, along with her long-time collaborator Megan Prumier, she has developed spaces that mirror vacation destinations for users to immerse themselves. I received the fantastic opportunity to sit down with the sim-developing extraordinaire to learn more about her process.

Jasmine, we’re so excited to have you!

I’m excited to be here. What a cute studio!

Thank you so much. So, What brought you into Second Life® and how long have you been a Second Life® user?

I’ve been a Second Life® user for 13+ years. I found the grid through an advertisement on the side of a flash game. I’ve always enjoyed virtual platforms alike.

You know, I think that is how I found Second Life® too! During your free time from working on your sims, are there any particular activities you enjoy doing?

To be honest, I view the work I do like fun. Second Life® is a creative outlet for me, so it doesn’t feel like work for

Photos courtesy of Jasmine Kiyori

some Crystals have been to Santorini. the most part. However, when I get out on the grid (which is rare for me), I think clubs Have you traveled to the locations you’ve taken inspiration from in real life? are fun.

That’s wonderful that you find joy in your Yes! I’m a traveler in real life, and part of the reason I started my virtual destinations was work. We have enjoyed exploring your the inability to travel during the pandemic. destinations, especially Kiyori. I know

Everything I do is inspired by the places I’ve Maybe a week? It has gone through a few difbeen to and the things I’ve experienced and ferent phases. Santorini is currently inactive seen. while it’s being reworked for the third time.

I loved all of the build versions of Santorini, How long did it take you to plan out but when I get new ideas, I just want to tear Santorini, then develop it? everything apart and start fresh!

That is highly impressive! A sim region is merely a canvas. There are no rules on how it has to remain or change.

Did you develop these destinations alone, or did you have a team?

In the beginning, I hired landscapers. I Though my destinations started in 2020, I’ve wasn’t super confident at first, but now for all always built other projects as well as private the destinations that I do, I bring in Megan builds for myself and my friends.

Prumier. She is an excellent builder and can always pull off what I don’t feel is possible.

She’s exceptionally talented. We did Kiyori,

Cheri Noel, and now, we work on Santorini together. We work so wonderfully together on projects.

Kiyori came before Santorini, but it became a full region after Santorini. Initially, Kiyori was to be built before Santorini, but it didn’t work due to conflicting schedules. So Kiyori That’s amazing that you can find a creative used to be a tiny box in the sky. collaborator with whom you work so well.

Tell me a little bit more about Kiyori.

You also have a store that sells some of the How did it come to fruition? items seen around your sims! Do you plan to release more custom items?

My store has been around since 2018. Kiyori (the store) is mainly decor, but I am working on clothes as well. I want to bring unique fashion styles into SL. I would love to discuss more the incredible features of your sim Kiyori, like the Takai Hotel. It’s probably one of my favorite hotels to stay on the grid! I find it great for those who don’t want the full resort experience and a more hands-off approach but still are within a fully immersed experience with the option to explore and roleplay on their own accord.

I think that there are pros and cons to full roleplay places. Contrary to places like mine, they offer roleplay with actual people involved. Personally, and from what I’ve heard from my community, people enjoy that I use NPCs (Non-Player Characters) to fill areas that would involve roleplay. NPCs take away the pressure to roleplay, but people can still remain immersive. The bot will never get offended if you walk away.

I was highly impressed by the usage of NPCs, especially in the spa and even the street performers.

What are some of your favorite parts of Kiyori?

I genuinely enjoy the Seiryu Blues Lounge. It’s a Japanese jazz bar in Kiyori City, and I love it! It’s very

niche. The Love Hotel Eroyado is very cool as well.

I’ve always admired love hotels in real life and the crazy/ weird themes of the rooms.

outside the sim, which will keep it private and a much more unique experience.

Also, I’ve been working on my private home, a Moroccan/Sahara desert-style sim, I love the jazz bar too. The where I will probably use ambiance is immaculate, the alternative hotel/bed and dark, and cool. I find the breakfast business model for love hotel impressive, too, guests. and how you have all the NPC/bots set up, not just Additionally, Kiyori to be rented for time spent apparel should launch in in the hotel but also for the next few months as well! companionship. So folks Though I want to develop can take photos, have them five sims, it won’t be anytime hang out with them, and so soon, but I can definitely on. promise things will be added to the current sim in the fuExactly! People will actually ture. just take them to hang out.

It’s not always a sexual thing. That all sounds wonderful.

Also, I adore the cat cafe, and Have you ever thought of I’m looking to expand it. developing on Mainland?

It’s a nice service add-on, especially for photographers. So what are some new things we should expect to see in the next few months from your developments?

For now, all I have on Mainland are mini-homes inspired by different cultures.

The homes I create are dependent on the region name that reflects a specific place. Recently I got a region with an Indian name, so be Santorini is expected to re- on the lookout for an Indiopen on June 1st as a private an-inspired rental on Maindestination and no longer a land! public one. Similar to how you rent rooms at the Takai That’s such a great way to through kiosks, I will have keep things fresh! What an area for Santorini rentals other destinations would

you like to create?

I wish! The Kiyori airport would be started up and running!

Kenya would be fun, even though Kiyori is a blend of various places in Asia. I plan to do I think that’s one of the great things about something separate, including the Americas. Mainland. My SL family and I are always I love Canada! The wildlife is amazing. looking for destinations on Mainland so that we can fly or sail.

If only we could fly an aircraft across sims!

That would be such a fun, immersive expe- I’ve thought about ways to make it work, but rience.

I wish Mainland wasn’t so erratic. Otherwise,

I could only imagine! I live on Mainland, on the Satori continent, which is pretty I completely agree. It’s the result of a de- decent. However, I think that residents regulated creative space, which will come around the Blake sea and Route 8 try to keep things looking aesthetically pleasing. with random floating orbs or just wild It has so much potential, but there is a con things along the roadside. that comes with a deregulated space.

I’ve had to move some of my homes because neighbors would have a million breedables Right! I’d love to make Kiyori a continent or some giant sign with political nonsense. and put everything together. I’ve seen people I’d just develop on Mainland.

buy twenty-plus sims just so they can do stuff like that.

That sounds like a great idea! Then, add in one or two ocean sims in the middle so folks can fly over it.

And VOILA! Yes, I’ve thought about it.

It would be the ultimate destination!

I will say that idea is in mind for Kiyori if I ever get to develop five sims.

We are looking forward to all of your brilliant ideas, Jasmine! It was great chatting with you and learning more about Kiyori Estates. I know our readers will enjoy getting some insight into your work.

Thank you so much for having me!

To find out more about Kiyori Estates, check out her website here.

“I like you because you join in my weirdness.”

- Unknown

Finding Co in the Virt

Written by Photo coutes

ommunity tual World

Moonstone sy of Amethyst

W

hen searching for community, one may seek others who share the same values, interests, and shared goals.

Second Life® offers a plethora of spaces and opportunities to meet people from all over the world. So what do you do when you yearn for a community or a tribe? And, where do you find it?

Finding a community may req ness. But making connections where you fit in takes some tria worthwhile. Friendships, sister love relationships - even marri the grid and have evolved into

quire time, effort, and openand meeting people to see al and error but is usually rhoods, brotherhoods, and iages, have been initiated on significant connections.

Photo Courtesy of Jihyun Vespoli

We interviewed some residents to find out how they embarked on finding their communities or “tribes” on the grid:

Jihyun Vespoli

My community and children came to me in very different ways. Some I met through mutual friends, some I had been friends with for years and ended up adopting, and others I went looking for at different adoption agencies. We’re not your average in-world family. We all come from different walks of life. Most importantly, we all commu-

nicate in different ways. I feel like, often, it’s a bit harder to honor our different love languages, especially over the internet. As a mother in Second Life®, I honestly try my hardest to give everyone as much love as humanly possible. I also honor any real-life and inworld boundaries that may be in place. One thing that helps our family thrive is the notion that real-life comes first. Even if some-

Photo Courtesy of Jihyun Vespoli

one isn’t able to log on in-world for an extendbe afraid to join someone, or some group, outside ed period, we utilize other avenues of commuof your comfort zone. You might end up meeting nication. Discord, FB Messenger, and we’ve also your tribe. shared real-life phone numbers! Beyond family, we are real-life friends. For anyone looking to find a community or create/join a family, I’d say be open and receptive. The universe brings different people into our lives for various reasons, so don’t

Moonstone

I’ve found my community throughout the years by engaging myself in activities that feel genuinely good to my soul or require me to push forth my best self. Generally, I would explore nature-inspired sims and meditation communities and search for places where I may find other content creators and artists in the virtual space. I believe that when you take part in activities or situations that feel natural to you, the creation of relationships can also feel the same.

Vrutega vega

other through our work. We find creativity and inspiration in everything we do on Second Life®. We often weave our social and business worlds together regularly. We’re constantly collaborating and creating content while simultaneously learning about each other. This has enabled a cohesive workflow and allows us to be in sync creatively.

I met the majority of the people that are the closest to me by chance and by networking.

When I first started my journey in Second Life®, I met my close friends through social events, gatherings, and exploring the grid.

Most of the core members of Machinima Group are friends that I have met through professional networking and past machinima My advice to those looking to find their comprojects. munity inworld is to explore the grid, get inPrimarily, my friends and I bond with each volved on social media, and utilize the events

Photo Courtesy of Vrutega Vega

and classifieds options on Second Life®.

Sometimes the best social experiences inworld can be through spontaneous exploration on the grid through destination exploration.

Various social media platforms have shown that they can be valuable tools to bring people together. Second Life® has a large community on pretty much every social media platform. It has been a communication staple

for many social groups, brands, and Second Life® organizations.

Amethyst

I have been on the grid for 13 years, and I’ve found community through live music events and in the role-playing community. In addition, many Second Life® residents participate on social media. It’s easier to connect with people you don’t otherwise have a chance to meet in-world or even when not logged in. It is also a way to communicate with people who have common interests. (i.e., virtual travel, live music lovers, and even sororities and fraternities, to name a few.

Photo Courtesy of Amethyst/Zoeynova Oatsmill

Restorat

in the Virt

Written by

W

e’ve all felt physical exhaustion or reached that time of day where all you want to do is close your eyes and lay your body down for a quick nap, either ten minutes or an hour. Whether napping is perceived as beneficial or not by some, most of us find it reasonably necessary.

Over the years, in our virtual environment, we have seen furniture animations improve over time, offering us a variety of ways to enhance our experience in Second Life ®. We have seen hammocks, beds, couches, and even blankets covering your avatar, amongst other creations with embedded animations

tive Rest

tual Space

y Amethyst promoting some form of sleep. What is it a sleep animation isn’t just used for role-play about sleeping in the virtual world that some purposes but maybe for pictures or to set a find so fascinating? personal reminder to take a break.

Sometimes sitting your avatar down or Activating a sleeping or napping animation choosing a lay-down animation can be percan mean many things for different people ceived as a way to be mindful that it’s time across the grid. For example, maybe starting to step away from the computer. Or, some-

times, a social event drains your batteries, and you are ready for a brain break.

could give a sense of comfort. Some families practice nighttime rituals, such as brushing their teeth, putting on pajamas, or receiving Sleeping or napping is popular amongst the tuck-ins. Some people stay logged on with role-playing community. The visuals of be- their avatars on sleeping animations while ing wrapped up in a blanket and lying down sleeping or resting in real life.

In any event, there is science behind the benefits of napping. For example, some research states that napping can improve alertness and memory, and for us virtual world fans and creatives, napping can improve the ability to learn and create.

Are you a fan of napping as a restorative, vital therapeutic process to help your creative process? Reach out to us on our Facebook page and let us know your thoughts.

THE

Through pHOTOGRAPHIC LENS: Ren Matsura Interview by Moonstone Photos courtesy of Ren Matsura

R

en Matsura has always moved in a sphere of his own. Cultivating a blogging and photography portfolio throughout the years, Ren has an easily recognizable style that not many can capture. He expresses vulnerability in his work by using melancholic undertones, an intentional lack of saturation, and intense usage of depth of field.

Here’s what Ren had to say when we asked about his fabulous work My name is Ren Matsura, and I’ve been a Second Life® user for seven years. I’ve been blogging and taking photos for six years.

I find that my greatest achievement is that I’ve been able to meet wonderful people from all around the world on this platform who were able to teach and mentor me in various skills. I intentionally approach my photography with a minimalist point of view and only use black and white or cold color tones. In addition, I’ve created a photo style where I can express my sadness and/or loneliness. I suppose that identifies the kind of person I am.

Generally, I’ve fulfilled my most significant dreams on Second Life® and got to work with someone I genuinely admire who has inspired my work from the beginning of my blogging and photography journey. I do hope to collaborate with other wonderful artists alike, but for me to do that, I need to be inspired to create work that I think audiences will enjoy. Lastly, I think it’s important to say I believe sadness should not be viewed as a bad thing to feel.

Through sadness, one can be inspired and

create wonderful, beautiful things.

To find more of Ren Matsura’s work, check out his Flickr here.

“If you tend to a flower, it will bloom, no matter how many weeds surround it.”

– Matshona Dhliwayo

The B of Di

A photo series

Beauty iversity

s by Moonstone

None of us alone can save the nation or the world. But each of us can make a positive difference if we commit ourselves to do so.

-Dr. Cornel West

Tolerance, inter-cultural dialogue and respect for diversity are more essential than ever in a world where peoples are becoming more and more closely interconnected.

-Kofi Annan

No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion.

People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.

-Nelson Mandela

Spotlight : Commu

with Stev

Interviewed b Photographed

unity Involvement

vie Basevi

by Ametrine d by Amethyst

S

upport for real-life community programs is present throughout the grid in almost every aspect of Second Life®. Our virtual world consists of frontline activists, volunteers, leaders, and facilitators of several well-known or grassroots organizations. For some residents, community activism is a desire driven by the passion for being a community change agent or supporting causes that may have some personal affiliation. Regardless of the reason, collaboration and involvement are widely practiced and supported in Second Life®.

Our spotlight for this edition of Sage & Crystals is on Stevie Basevi. Stevi’s lengthy involvement with community-based organizations within Second Life® is collectively rich and varied. Additionally, she is the owner of Sanctuary Roleplay Community, an award-winning fantasy role-playing community that recently celebrated its 14th anniversary.

Stevie and I sat down to discuss the inspiration behind her activism.

Stevie, I am so grateful and appreciate the opportunity to have this moment with you! Your involvement with community-based organizations within Second Life® is varied. How long have you been involved in this work?

Hey there! I’ve been involved with

Photos courtesy of Stevie Basevi

helping people in Second Life® since 2007 when I was an administrator and mentor in a role-playing/combat community called NoR, or Nation of Remembrance. It’s also what drove me to create the role-playing community called Sanctuary in 2008.

Sanctuary was a healer’s haven, a place where role-play/ combat healers could go to get training. It was also where I first got involved with The American Cancer Society events, such as Relay for Life and several others. So the name ‘Sanctuary’ had special meaning for me for personal reasons and was very appropriately chosen for what I had in mind to do.

Can you share with us what specific community organizations or individuals, past or present, you interact with on the grid?

I have interacted with many different organizations. I am not currently attached to some, but considering I spent several years with them, I will list them as they were important to me.

For the past few years, I have been a Lead and this year’s Coordinator for an event

that I am so very proud of called HopeFest.

years; White Tiger Mentor; a Firestorm Helper; The Dickens Project; Lead, for the ReHopeFest 2022 is a five-day naissance Festival for Relay festival of Second Life® com- for Life; Oral History Associmunities, not teams, comation by assisting people who ing together to build hope came into Second Life®. to and raise awareness and attend the conferences; Virfunds in support of Relay tual Worlds Best Practices in For Life of Second Life® and Education - Technical Team the American Cancer SoMember and Host ciety. The event runs from June 8th, 2022, to June 12th, I’m probably one of the busi2022, culminating in the Re- est people on the grid that no lay for Life Walk. We are a one has ever heard of! new event and are not as well known as other events, so Do you consider yourself please visit us. This year, our an activist or community communities are The Mag- leader? Why? ical, Medieval, Greek Associations, Creative communi- I am an activist in real-life. ties, and the main HopeFest I’ve been a card-carrying region. We’ll have plenty of member of Amnesty Internafun events, music, dance, art, tional since I was 17. I’ve also tournaments, and parties. been a Greenpeace U.S.A., You name it!

N.O.W., and Planned Parenthood member. In addition, I I have spent several years on did foster care for older chilthe Leadership Team for Re- dren with complex problems lay For Life; Lead and R.P. and advocated for my Class Facilitator for the Fan- children. tasy Faire Role Play; Planning Team, Making Strides You know, it’s funny. I’ve Against Breast Cancer; Lead never thought of what I do at One Billion Rising of Sec- as community activism or ond Life®.; Relay for Life even community leadership.

Xmas Expo Committee; I just wandered onto the grid participated in the Second one day and ‘did me.’ In SecLife® Birthdays as an exond Life®, I am a “helper of hibitor and host for several people.” If I can’t help some-

one, I can usually find the right person who actually can. People keep telling me that they don’t have a clue as to what I do or have done in Second Life®, other than the fact that I’m always busy, so here goes Over the years, I’ve owned and or rented about 14 sims and ran them with the help of others, but I have cut back that work significantly. After being nominated for several years, my Sanctuary region won an Avi Choice Award for Favorite Role Play sim in 2016. In addition, while helping supervise the C.C.S. combat community, I designed a CCS GM Academy to train G.M.s and held monthly sim owners meetings to facilitate better relationships between sim owners in our community. I have also tried to be as inclusive as possible in the things I do in Second Life®, encouraging multi-cultural participation and diversity in the events where I participate.

What sparked your interest in becoming involved in this type of work?

My passion is being of service to others and catch-

ing people before they fall, or both world environments at least I try to. and supporting the causes for which I believe. The need I came onto the grid out of is there, so I will do what I curiosity. I saw something can to help groups on the on television about it and grid and people in the backthought this platform could ground get the support they have all kinds of possibilideserve. ties. For me, it’s very satisfying to do what I can for oth- It’s interesting that as a sim ers. While it’s been said that owner, people come to me those you help may be the as they would come to a barones who take the most from tender or even a priest. It’s you, and while that may be not up to me to absolve anytrue, I still choose to do it one, but I’m a good listenwholeheartedly. I take what er, and if I can help, I always I do very seriously and very will and always keep things personally. It’s all about the confidential. I have seen peohuman connection for me. ple on the grid in terrible situations because they eiWhat inspires or motivates ther don’t know how to help you to continue working themselves or are unable to. for these causes?

I am someone that they can always come to, and they Good question. My real-life know that their words will childhood has been a diffi- go no further. I’ve supported cult one. Unfortunately, there many individuals and orgahasn’t always been someone nizations inworld in whatevthere to help me. Indeed, er way was appropriate and you never know what bur- most needed. I feel honored den someone is carrying, but when people come to me for considering my life experi- advice about anything, be it ences, I assume that most are role play, questions on how carrying something. There- to run a sim, region issues, fore, if I can help even one dealing with players, or anyperson walk an easier path, thing. I’ve participated in a it’s all worth it. program in Second Life® for people who have depression Philanthropy has always and need to talk to someone. been important to me, in I have been a mentor for new

residents and have helped some of them with makeovers.

I suppose what motivates me is the knowledge that there is always someone who feels they have no one. I want to make that difference because I know all too well how it feels to be alone here. Sometimes people need to talk, so I encourage them to talk.

Not everyone wants you to solve their problems. Sometimes they need someone to listen.

If other residents want to get involved, what advice based on your own experience would you like to pass on?

Someone once told me that no one needs a tag to get involved and help, and I suppose that I’ve lived by that philosophy. If you want to help, keep your eyes and ears open and when you see someone in need, offer assistance. Start small. Try helping one person at a time. As cliche as it sounds, try and do one good thing a day for a stranger. Please pay it forward. Don’t aim for titles.

Just do stuff that you enjoy and include others.

Are there any further insights, opinions, or feelings you would like to share with our readers?

My doctor discovered I had early breast cancer when I was pretty young. I was not at the age yet where people automatically scheduled mammograms, but I’d been feeling some pain. I got a biopsy, and there was something there. Luckily, it was handled with a lumpectomy, and I just had frequent mammograms and exams for a while. Unfortunately, my mother and grandmother weren’t as lucky. Some years later, my mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer, and she passed away.

My grandmother passed away from the same thing a few years after my mother. I never could understand why they never once got a mammogram after my diagnosis. I also had someone else I loved very much pass away from lung cancer at 34. He smoked four packs of cigarettes a day. A few years ago, I discovered that the man who turned out to be my biological father had passed away from cancer, too, before I could meet him. After that, some other dear friends

in real-life and Second Life® died from cancer. I felt a need to do something to help. My experiences are why I continue to support the American Cancer Society, so I Relay.

My favorite quote: “Our prime purpose in this life is to help others, and if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama

“Real rest feels like every cell is thanking you for taking care of you. It’s calm, not full of checklists and chores. It’s simple: not multitasking; not fixing broken things.”

— Jennifer Williamson

Sloar

Is your inventory out of control? Are you overwhelmed by the clutter? Don’t kn Sloarders, our Facebook support group where we discuss tips, folder organizatio quick inventory purge

rderS

now how to organize your folders? There IS light at the end of the tunnel! Join on and just plan inventory cleanup and management. You can even join us for a e party. Find us here.

breakthrough. There is an opportunity to be liberated from whatever has held you back from being independent and with Ametrine free. However, as you bask in this newfound liberation, be “Do the best you can until you careful not to give away your know better. Then when you power/influence to others. know better, do better.” ~Maya Angelou Gemini: With a few more steps, you will realize some of your pring can feel like trainmost important goals. You ing wheels attached to us spent all winter inwardly manas we emerge from dormanifesting, thinking about what cy. The growing pains are un- you wanted, and now you see comfortable, but we know that the flowers of your seeds plantchange is constant and growth ed. Congratulations! is present. As we get closer to the end of spring in the North- Cancer: A little competition may ern Hemisphere and herald in be the catalyst you need to get energetic summer, we present your goals moving. Do you the emerging energies for each have a rival? Allow it/them to sign in our Tarot Astrology push and challenge you as long readings. as the competition remains healthy to prevent the fallout of Ask yourselves, “What did I conflict and ambition. Stay dylet go off to allow something namic and move forward. else in?” And, “What is fully emerging for me by summer?” Leo: It is imperative to have a solid foundation upon which Aries: Feelings and evidence your manifestations can grow. of impending success are all There are strong possibilities around! Your manifestations in store for you but make sure show up in every aspect, and you stay grounded, have a solid you feel like you are on a roll. plan, and continue to nurture Be sure to surround yourself those ideas and plans. with spiritual protection, stay Stay optimistic. Stay on task. attuned, and stay aligned to protect yourself from negativi- Virgo: You are courageous in ty. pursuing what you know and feel is rightfully yours. Your deTaurus: You are on the edge of a cisions have been wise and on-

Tarot Astrology

S

point. However, be careful not to appear too controlling or overly rigid in your thinking.

Libra: Finding inspiration seems to be bothering you because of some delays. Tune out negative people, negative self-talk, and feelings of inadequacy. You are absolutely more than enough, and in time things you’ve been trying to manifest will unfold wonderfully for you.

Scorpio: The keyword for you this season is balance. It is essential to narrow down what is important to you and create an environment where they get

equal amounts of your time.

If you are juggling too many things, it’s time to let something go to preserve your energy.

what you are seeking! Be happy and lighthearted; open and available because there is a chance for a love like no other. Deep, meaningful, and trustworthy, only if you open up and stop being so hard on Sagittarius: The right amount of yourself. Miracles are available ambition, confidence, and gen- to you, too! erosity will guarantee you the success you are seeking. This Aquarius: There is a profound energy is highly present for transition in the works. You those with their sun or rising will look back at this point in sign in Sagittarius. Know your time and see the difference in you. Allow the Universe and boundaries and stay within beneficial others to support them! you through this. You are not Capricorn: Love is on the menu alone. for you this season if that is

Pisces: If you have experienced a missed opportunity, this is not the time to dwell on it. Release it so that you can be open to staying in the present moment.

The past or the future has no place in the here and now.

Continue to stay focused and pay attention to the miracles happening before you.

Ophiuchus 13th Zodiac: The seeds planted while doing your inner work are about to sprout and flower fantastically. Feeling compelled and pushed energetically, you are about to embark on something new and exciting. Be inspired!

O

ON