We had the good fortune of connecting with Kalani LeSane and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kalani, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I think about this question often, actually. Throughout my day to day life I always ask myself “what will the people you’ve interacted with today remember about you?” I have learned that 2 of the most beautiful and brave things you can be in the world, is kind and open. Throughout my journey of doing something as small as putting a quote on the sidewalk in chalk I have met and impacted so many people. I never would’ve imagined that something so small could have such a big effect. Recently I did a quote that read, “Leave people better than you found them.” This quote really speaks on what my goal is everyday, whether it’s with a chalky thoughts quote or in another way. Everyday I hope to have a meaningful impact on someone. I want to be remembered as someone who shines light even in darkest of places.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have an Instagram called ChalkyThoughts which highlights the quotes I write on the sidewalk in chalk almost daily. These quotes are chosen the day of. I like to write things that resonate with me but also things I think a person or people may need to hear or be reminded of. Its something that started as a hobby but has turned into so much more as I’ve seen the numerous people I’ve impacted with something so small. Along side that I am also a poet which actually helps me with some of my quotes I decide to write. Inspiring people is something that inspires me. I love to be able to spread kindness and love. I always want to create an open space for people to not only be vulnerable but comfortable and free. I think if more people did things that were simple yet kind and genuine, the world would be a much better place.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So although I do most of my chalk downtown and in Colorado Springs, I actually love Glenwood, CO. Its such a beautiful place to hike, go fishing and just really take a breather from the hectic world around you. I love nature and experiencing new things. My favorite place in Colorado Springs, though, is The Summit. From bowling to the arcade to laser tag, it’s such a fun place. They serve food and drinks, it’s very family friendly.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people, books and organizations that have truly inspired me. The first one is the high school I graduated from, Community Prep. It’s staff provided me with so many opportunities and mentors, including Abbey who was my advisor and also took me in as her own. She has given me so much knowledge and helped me grow in so many ways. Along with that my mom and grandma Hazel who have overcome some of the biggest obstacles life could throw at you. Another huge inspiration of mine was a great friend who passed away, John. He was one of the kindest, most down to earth people I have ever met. Lastly, Hear Here Poetry is an organization that saved my life. Being introduced to a place where I could be so open with my writing and have so much support is a beautiful thing. There are many people I have not mentioned that have helped me along this journey, I can only hope they know how grateful I truly am
Instagram: ChalkyThoughts
Other: Email: ChalkyThoughts@gmail.com