Whether it be naming a new piece of art, or finding a quote to go with it – the pairing of words and images energizes my spirit.
During this season of my life, art and words have led me to my purpose - which is to inspire and offer hope to others.
Art from the Heart is bestowed by life and embroidered by imagination and is another way, for me, to tell a story. As Aristotle said "The Soul Never Thinks Without a Picture."
"Ever since our ancestors could first communicate, we have gathered to share our stories. We have passed along creation tales and tragic stories of love lost. We have repeated accounts of real heroism and simple stories of family history.
When our forebears lived closer to the land and to each other, the practice of storytelling was imbued with ritual and occasion. Members of the tribe would often gather around the fire to hear their genealogy recited aloud by an elder or master storyteller. Listeners could track how their own lives, and the lives of their parents, interwove with the lives of the other tribe members, as everyone's ancient relatives once played out similar life dramas together.
When we hear others tell stories, we can laugh at their humorous adventures, feel the thrill of exciting encounters, see parts of ourselves in them, and learn from the challenges they face. Though most of our formal traditions of storytelling are lost, it does not mean we have to be without.
We can begin new practices in our own families of listening to one another, of honoring our own journey, and witnessing the journeys of those around us. We can revive the fireside communal by gathering around the campfire or hearth with family and friends, sharing in stories. By building new practices of storytelling, we give ourselves and the ones we love an opportunity to draw ever closer in our shared human experience." DailyOM
I have always gravitated to people that I can share conversation with in a profound way. Sure, I can make “small talk” and have lots of fun kibitzing - which brings joy filled moments to my life. But I must admit, I most treasure the times when I get to know someone in a thoughtful and authentic way.
Ahh – a very important word was just used here. Authentic. After many decades, I've taken off the mask of what I thought I was supposed to be. Being “me” in an authentic way is what brings a smile to my eyes and opens my heart to others.
And, because I tend to think and hear in pictures, many of these openhearted conversations create beautiful images in my mind. My soul is made up of a tapestry of moments that have been woven into my soul. My 'Art from the Heart' is bestowed by life and embroidered by imagination! It is story art, to be interpreted by the viewer.
Here’s a challenge – why not share a few minutes today with someone you only know on a casual level. Go beneath the surface, be present, be authentic, listen and learn. Perhaps you will be gifted with something unexpected and delicious. And, it may be the beginning of a new, important relationship. What do you have to lose?
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