Yesterday was one of our last warmish days this fall, and I did some final garden gathering. It has been a difficult summer for growing things… we didn’t have much rain, it was unusually hot, and my little garden was in constant peril of squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons. I almost felt like giving up ~ but I didn’t. I kept thinking about how much I wanted the satisfaction of a harvest… and besides, I’d already put effort and energy into my little plot. It seemed a waste not to keep fighting for what was mine!
It’s kind of a metaphor, isn’t it? The gifts we’ve been given are like seeds. But, just like in a garden, they must be planted, cultivated and nurtured to actually grow, thrive, and produce. Seeds can sit dormant indefinitely if they aren’t planted in soil that can sustain them. They can also sprout and wither if not nurtured and cared for. Seeds never suddenly produce a wonderful harvest without first going through the process of growth.
This is true of us artistically! The gifts we have must be planted, protected, nurtured and tended. Neglecting this critical process results in a withered end. For me, this means I keep a regular practice of creating; try new ideas; learn about and from artists of history; take classes that continue to develop my skills; and yes – I teach! (It’s been said that by teaching we truly learn!)
So, I want to encourage you to take the seeds you’ve been given to plant ~ nurture and tend them, protect and fight for them in order to enjoy the bountiful harvest, which becomes a blessing beyond yourself!
My garden ended up with a harvest this year! I had to water it, pull out weeds and cover it with netting to outsmart the animals who were intent on stealing the harvest. It took some effort and persistence, but was worth it!
Maybe these thoughts resonate with you, but you aren’t sure where to start! Check out this FREE download when you click the button below: Three Easy Ideas to Ignite Creative Thought. You can start today to nurture the seeds of your creative design. (These are things that I continue to use to re-energize my thoughts!) I look forward to getting to know you and send you encouragement for your artistic journey!
Great content! Keep up the good work!