My time at Civitella was full of light: diligent daily work on my ongoing book of compositions for my band Alula, a string piece for an ensemble playing at my upcoming residency at The Stone, investigating litterature on prison abolition, unplanned collaborations with Fellows, laughter at dinner, dancing in the game room. I felt fortunate to compose, practice, develop, and share my work over these memorable six weeks. Some of my highlights were unexpected, heart-opening realizations, nurtured by a community of artists who have a like-minded adoration for process and for sharing their works of art. Civitella as a living organism — the staff, the chefs, the gardeners, the communities it brings together — is a gift that I will cherish for the rest of my life.