Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart.
He who looks outside, dreams. He who looks inside, awakens. Carl Jung

Monday, December 6, 2010

Believe

snowflakecard

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.)

10 comments:

  1. I agree that we can get caught up in the voice of negativity especially if it has been a companion for years. Reminders and affirmations are very helpful. I find that blogging on the positive helps me too...
    Thank you for stopping by my blog.
    Happy Holidays!
    Elizabeth

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  2. I think there is a delay with the links at Gothic Arch Challenge...What a fun challenge. love the colors you chose!

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  3. "Enthusiasm is nothing: it comes and goes. But if one believes, then miracles occur." Lovely quote! this has been my mojo since I can remember and it is the only thought that keeps me going. I believe that everything happens for a reason; believe that nothing is impossible; believe in the power of feelings...I believe in God with all my heart. If we stop believing we simply stop living. Happy Tuesday Dawn!

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  4. I love this quote Dawn. Your words are so true as well. I often have to combat my negative thoughts about my capabilities, my writing, etc. Thanks for reminding me of my that my inner critic can become my biggest fan.

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  5. Dawn,
    we really can be our own worst enemies, I try to remember and teach my kids, that it's really more about the process, the discovery than the outcome. My brother once said, in response to someone who said they couldn't draw well, "We all draw well, we don't all have the same style" That statement really helped me lighten up with my drawing and to find the experience much more enjoyable, AND I'm not sure if it's just a matter of perspective, but I think they look better too!
    Peace,
    Jenny

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  6. What a wonderful quote! Thank you for your wisdom once again! It's nice to hear out loud (a confirmation of) what we truly know inside. :)
    Thanks for stopping by my blog and giving me a lift!
    Love and blessings!
    Kathy

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  7. delightful colours and such a true saying by
    Henry Miller.
    You're right don't let others decide what is art enjoy your journey.

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  8. A huge apology for not getting here sooner! Thank you all for coming by! Glad you all liked the quote/post ~ when something resonates for others as it does for me, I know I've found kindred spirits!

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What's your truth?