Blog

As I sip my first cup of coffee for the morning, and sit at my computer and write, I am drawn to reflect on the past year with gratitude.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion. It has little to do with the actual circumstances of life, but everything to do with our chosen perspective of those circumstances. Sometimes it is easy to be grateful; many times it is difficult. To be grateful means you have to look at life through a filter of positive thinking. Feeling sorry for oneself doesn't fit through the filter. Neither does envy. Or hanging on to past grievances. Or the desire to change someone.

In this quiet moment, when I ask myself to be thankful, some thoughts come quickly. I am thankful for the talent I have been given. I am thankful that I recognize that gift. I am thankful that I nurture that gift with the support and blessing of my family. And I am thankful that people like you connect enough with my work to purchase it.

It is that connection, more than the financial benefit, that gives me the strength, the courage, the resolve to keep creating. Would I still paint if not a single work sold? Yes - because painting is a form of expression for me - something inside that rolls and kicks and grows and wants out. Much like an unborn child is nurtured and grows in the darkness of its own creation, then needs to be born into the light of this world. But just as that baby is born with a need to communicate, so each painting needs to communicate - and when it finds its soul mate, the person who purchases it - that is a satisfying and wondrous thing. Communication - connection - creativity.

The house is stirring now; I hear my grandson's little footsteps on the floor above me. Time now to go and start the day; lots still to do to prepare. But as I dive into the hectic pace of Holiday preparation, I begin with a prayer of gratitude.

Thank you ... Namaste