Spring this year in the PNW is vivaciously extraordinary. Every time I step outside, my body jolts into appreciation and awareness, the dusty lens of my over-thinking washed clean by the smell of lilacs and the immersion in green. It is an antidote for pretty much everything. The long dark winter is a distant memory and any stress or human concern seems to pale in comparison to the pure joyful existence of blooming trees, buzzing bees, and layers and layers of green.
Spring is providing inspiration as I prepare to teach a class next week on building a daily sketchbook practice based on following what you love. Therefore, I have been reflecting quite a bit on what I love, what drives me and what lights me up. Recognizing and honoring this internal fire seems the true purpose of our short time here on earth and a practice that is often sorely neglected. This following of one's true passions is often boldly proclaimed as de rigour, especially during graduation season. Yet to identify, name and then pursue what you individually and honestly love is quite a revolutionary act that requires a continual process of trial, failure, error, course correction, and bravery to follow what is true to you.
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits and the 3-2-1 newsletter, shared an amazing quote this week from J. Krishnamurti.
"The ability to observe without evaluating is the highest form of intelligence"
I think this points to why art making can be so powerful and transformative. When I am truly in the flow of making art, I am not evaluating, only observing, listening and acting. It also is an amazing skill to employ when listening to your own interests. Can you listen without evaluation and honor what makes your heart sing?
Until next Friday!
Be well, breathe, read, and make some art!
Jen