It all begins with a simple “yes”
'‘What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” Jane Goodall
Was she talking to me directly? I am struck with the direct trueness of Goodall’s quote. What kind of difference have I made here on this planet, seems to be a daily preoccupation of mine. Most importantly what are my next steps to creating change, internally and externally? Perhaps this is happening to you also? Is it the simplest of answers, just say yes?
The aftershocks of our Covid time, have been coming to terms with isolation and a sense of do we even need to leave our houses. More and more, I am needing to break out of that bread baking and find that proverbial tribe. That sense of being part of a larger connection. The knowing that the vitality of our life is through our connections and service.
I decided to take that simple yes as the quiet (or maybe not so quiet) heroine. For I am too strong to ever be called a victim. Next step? The yellow brick road of yes. Yes to trying new things, yes to showing my heart more, yes to stretching my art skills, and a huge yes to life and whatever color streaks through my sight.
We have all had times in our lives where obstacles seemed way too formidable. Yet here we are. “I am thankful for my struggle because, without it, I wouldn’t have stumbled across my strength." Alex Elle
And what is that other quote? Ah yes, A woman is like a tea bag - you can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water. Eleanor Roosevelt.
My art has been my strength and insightful companion. It has taught me to see simple beauty. Right now, the rain is falling creating dappling shades of color on the sidewalk. The sound hypnotic. Simple things of beauty make my heart sing. A gentle kiss, a stranger’s shared smile, a leaf floating through the air, a bird calling to its mate, my crystals radiating rainbows, my grandgifts hello on the phone. My heart is testimony to the simple. For me, creating beauty in every form, is a gift we can all give and share. Perhaps that is our how we make a difference?
When years ago I was very ill, getting through the day was so hard. I started making what I call rainbow makers. It didn’t matter whether they were so tacky and crafty looking I just wanted people to know they mattered. So, leaving my pride behind, I made a point of giving them to others who were needing to know they were seen, because well, I so knew what it meant to not be seen. On each rainbow maker I shared these words: because light transforms our hearts. Hanging up those crystals gave simple joy to the light that glowed and the hearts that smiled knowing that they mattered. I have rainbow makers in many of the windows where I live. (Check out a gallery page to see some of my rainbow creations.)
No matter our age, the awe of rainbows always renders joy and the beauty of awe. Yes?
Something about creating artwork is intensely personal. It is the opening door to a secret sacred place. Sharing it takes courage while trying to leave the judgement behind. Geez, I hope someday I can really do that!
This is my rainbow moment. Here I am, diving in, screwing up my courage to share my undisciplined art and maybe bring a few smiles and make some new friends. I really hope you enjoy my colors, thoughts and heart felt meanderings.
Thanks for being here.
In peace and gratitude,
ariel
