We have all experienced the life-altering affects of the pandemic. In THIS INTERVIEW you’ll learn its toll on recording artist, influencer and philanthropist Karma The Artist.
The CEO of Treble Girl Entertainment and Good Karma Ent. took time to answer our “2000 BC Q&A”, reflecting on her life before COVID-19 and how things have changed personally and professionally since.
Tell us what you miss most from life before COVID-19.
If I’m being honest, what I miss the most is traveling and touring. I haven’t done much by choice during this time, but I am anxious to get back on the road like the butterfly I am.
Where were you when you learned about COVID-19 and how did you respond?
I believe I was at my studio and read about it online. I don’t think I had a response much more than confusion and worry like most, and from there I just tried figure out the next steps on how to get through it which I think is still an ongoing task.
What, for you, have been the personal and professional benefits, and setbacks, from the pandemic?
The setbacks personally and professionally were just not being around or seeing a lot of people, or adjusting to being around them while wearing a mask which was obviously a new concept.
As for the benefits, I believe it’s given us more time and motivation to communicate and check on one another. Plus, virtual apps like Clubhouse has made it possible to connect and network from the comfort of our own homes.
All in all, I think it’s given us a lot of insight on what we needed to change and improve both personally and society.
Do you have faith in the vaccine?
I don’t wish to answer that as of yet.
Who do you talk to the most to keep your spirits up and help you stay optimistic?
I usually talk to my big brother Jon who’s my best friend as well. He always makes me laugh and allows me to walk through the hard moments.
And, of course, my mom. She usually has a good prayer or funny story for me. During a time like this you can’t beat having the wisdom of a strong mother to lean on.
Has the pandemic caused you to value your life and the lives of others more than you did already?
The pandemic didn’t cause me to value life any more than I have, only because I was taught to never take a single day of life for granted and to be safe and cognizant of my health and of those around me.
However, it did inspire me to push harder for the things I want and the help I inspired to give to the world because it’s nothing like things shutting down to remind you that time is of the essence. And to always go for what you want!
What about your immediate surroundings have you become more aware of?
I have become more aware that some people didn’t take their health or how they affect others in the world as seriously as they should. I think the need to be conscious of others is now more of a universal language and responsibility that still needs time to take full affect, but I am liking the progress thus far.
What’s something that had to change because of the pandemic that you hope doesn’t change back once it’s over?
One thing that changed that should remain is the care and appreciation we have for essential workers and teachers. I think they need to be recognized in such a way that is measurable to their sacrifices and contributions.
As a former educator, I could only imagine having to resume work under such circumstances, but I’m sure all of the parents are more than grateful to them now.
After having spent what, for some, was much needed one-on-one time with their children, I think parents can now try to understand first-hand the responsibility and weight teachers face while being underpaid and underserved in our communities. I’m hoping those circumstances continue to improve as well. |THIS.
[By M.J. Walker]
