Currency has flow, like a river sending water droplets down in a mass stream of rippling consciousness, capital has a way of moving between the obstructions to follow its destiny downstream. Some same it trickles up or down depending on your geography and magnetism -- I say any multitude of flows are possible when we take time to move with the forces at work.
Unicorns understood this before humans did. While we long for some singularity with the digital consciousness the unicorns became part of the etheric mass long ago, captured in the dreams of millions. Their stories are legion and they are like the gems of the gods, pawns in various cosmic games of intrigue given as tokens after an adventure. They are creatures of strength and beauty, seen more in natural history than in mythology as their images find their way into paintings of our heritage. Their origins are unknown: in China the unicorn is related to dragon and chimera while they may be cousins to the oryx or eland in the southern hemisphere.
The stories around the unicorns began as they were given to others in exchange for extraordinary adventures. A unicorn could only be awarded if the pursuit was true and the gift was needed. In some lore the unicorn would only come to virginal maidens but they seem to be quite friendly when appreciated, much like any precious gift. They have a special sparkle that has captivated artists and kings alike.
Unicorns as currency may seem to flow upstream, capturing the light in the river and magnifying it. Perhaps they are like a spotlight to goodness, a mirror reflecting the sun to its brethren on earth. Unicorns do not blend in and receiving such a rare thing is always a memorable experience. I give them to honor those who have done something wonderful and extraordinary in their own journey and in the process of giving I ask that unicorn to remember the nature of the gift to hold in its heart as it passes through the ages. The unicorns we give will outlive us and because they are rare and ephemeral they capture value unlike the gifts we typically give -- plastic cards with magnetic strips on them carrying information to a plastic store with magnetic strips in the objects. This is not the kind of giving exchange I want to share with others: I want to share something strong and beautiful. I want to give you a unicorn.
Here are the people who have earned unicorns from me this year, and why:
- Jean Russell: for extraordinary listening and care in network culture as @nurturegirl
- Stacey Monk: for initiating the Tweetsgiving movement to help a school she cares about
- Bill May: for being a rockstar in government virtual engagement through social media
- David Hodgson: for assistance with the Thrivable network of leaders
- Lightning Temple: for extraordinary feats of artistic achievement
I have received unicorns from:
- The pink fairy Amber: delivered to a Lightning Temple meeting, named Megajoule Lunacorn
- Jean and Jo: The green unicorn shirt with the corn as a horn from Threadless (thanks!)
- Captain Cassie: For lending me her stuffed unicorn pillow at Burning Man, and for general awesomeness, thank you.
