Believe

Back of every creation, supporting it like an arch, is faith.  Enthusiasm is nothing: it comes and goes. But if one believes, then miracles occur.

Henry Miller

I thought this quote fitting for the season but also in terms of creativity ~ belief itself can transform an idea or desire into reality.  A year ago my only outlets were reading, writing and teaching.  I dabbled sporadically in scrapbooking and had never sewn or painted (not counting pre-school fingerpaints or the 4th grade “jean short purse” that busted at the seams the first day I carried it!).  This year I’m using mixed media for homemade cards and framed pictures, altering journals and sewing journal totes for gifts and using ATC’s as a basis for “prayer” card sets for some family members.  So what happened in the 40+ years between painting pictures for my mom and the adult mindset that I am not an artist…  a loss of wonder as negative messages sank in (you can’t do that).  I have no idea exactly where those messages came from but I (& I’m sure others) internalized the thought that only those with “real” talent can write a story or create a piece of art.  However, I reached a point where the stories had to be written and once I gained confidence in that arena, a snowball effect took place and I became more about the process instead of the end result.  The process focus does not allow space for negative self-talk; instead it allows for room to grow.

Begin paying attention to that negative voice inside, make a list of those self-defeating messages you give yourself and then re-frame them in a way that empowers you.

{I’m participating in Gothic Arches challenge this week ~ I’ve been wanting to for awhile.  This blog offers a free downloadable PDF with the history of Gothic Arches & several tutorials as well as resources for using arches in your mixed-media.)

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