My laughing joke when asked to try something artistic is I flunked coloring in the first grade and it has all been downhill since. For some reason I felt inadequate as a five year old trying to color. Perhaps it was my inability to stay in the lines. Truthfully there is not one artistic bone in my body ~or so I thought. And then the pandemic came and I had LOTS of time on my hands with my volunteering hours coming to a screeching halt. I began the search for things to do and ~
I began by going back to embroidering . I am no seamstress, but I can make these tiny stitches (with the help of a magnifying light). I made my granddaughter a dancing bag, and two sets of pillowcases.
Then I began to watch youtube videos on how to draw. I have an entire sketch book filled with drawings such as these ~
Once things began to open up a little, I made my way back to the She Shed and made a bird feeder and garden pole. So far I still have all ten fingers. The latest thing I have tried is acrylic painting such as this sunflower.
Who knew I would enjoy this so much? Who knew, though I am no artist, the process was very satisfying and relaxing.
Bottom line, I could have left this terrestrial ball never knowing how enjoyable this was because I would not try it--thinking I was not good enough. I made the dire mistake of comparison. I have loads of super talented friends, and there is no way I could compete with their wonderful pieces. BUT--I should have realized this is no competition (THANK GOODNESS--HATE COMPETITION), there is only the joy in creating. So what if I am no Rembrandt, there was only one of those. So what if sometimes my creations are lame. Why not create for the shear joy of creating? What fun and enjoyment I would have missed had I never picked up that first pencil, needle, or paint brush. My creations are hung in and around my home (some in the garage-LOL) for me to reflect upon how I enjoyed accomplishing their creation.
So my sweet friends, stop comparing yourself. Participate and try new things in a search for those things which bring you joy. AND guess what, you can create by writing. I see creative posts on social media everyday. Posts which make me laugh, cry and think. Sit down and write one paragraph--that is where it all begins.
Please stop the big mistake of comparison---what a joy stealer! Be you---let others be themselves ~we are wonderfully created to be individuals. Seek joy--above all--seek joy.
"You will show me the way of life,
granting me the joy of Your presence,
and the pleasures of living with you forever."
Psalm 16:11
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Joy in creating . . . That's what it's all about, Lulu. And I do love all the lovely things you have made here!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Yes, I would take joy over almost any other emotion any day, Martha!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!