What a wild ride it's been! I've been thinking the last few days how to frame all I've been taking in the last few weeks.
I feel I'm slowly recovering from the spiritual uproar I've been in. Oddly, one of my problems is being too giving and generous with others, and not protecting myself.
On the other hand, I'm also finding I can find my way more clearly by helping others first.
In the last few days, I've met other people from all walks of life who have hit the same soul-numbing wall I have. Like me, they have been blindsided by setbacks. They have come to doubt their strengths and blessings. They feel they have failed.
By listening to them, I realize they have NOT failed at all.
Like me, they were temporarily distracted from their mission. They focused on outcomes instead of on process, and lost their way. They ended up jerked up short and in great emotional (and even physical) pain.
But when I see what happens when they come out the other side, it moves me to tears.
Because this is what it's all about. Having a vision, bringing all you have to bear to make it happen, losing our way and finding it again.
And never giving up, if it's that important to you.
As I was trying to find a way to put this simply, I read an e-mail from a perfect stranger, asking me for advice about getting back into the business of craft. What is the craft scene like these days?, they asked.
I didn't hesitate for a SECOND. Here is what I wrote:
The air in craft IS grim. There are far too many shows and way too many artists who still strive to do them, yet buyers are scarcer than ever. Seems like everyone has figured out how to make a buck off the artists--except we artists! :^)
Should that discourage you? NO!!
The world needs your art. I think there will always be a market for good work, made with skill and passion.
My advice?
Don't try to make something for everyone. Find the most powerful, beautiful work that is in you, and make sure you do everything in your power to bring it out. You may have to work harder to find your markets, but you will have crafted a beautiful life for yourself in the process.
And now I've got to take my own advice, and get back to work.
You, too. Go make something!
