Let's Start Something Here

It is springtime where I live, and with that comes the blooms and hopes of of a new season. This year, in particular, that seems really important. Many of us have spent the last year tucked away, unable to connect in person with those that we love. Far too many people have lost loved ones and the whole world mourns. It is almost too much to process.  This is layered with issues of social injustice, meaningful political shifts and human rights. In many ways I feel helpless in the face of all of this.  I feel unable to contribute, unable to help, unable to find a meaningful path forward. 

But then another thought crept in to my mind.

A small one.

But one that shouldn't be ignored.

Perhaps I cannot contribute in a grand way or affect sweeping change or even a visible one.  But I can perhaps provide a connection.  I can provide knowledge in a creative space.  I can be more of a person in this online space, share more of myself with those that might need a little something to encourage them in their own journey.  I am honored to be part of a crafting community.  Perhaps there is more I can do in that space to...help.

So, here it is.  The start.  When I feel lost, I turn to my art.  When I feel uninspired, I turn to my books and my favorite blogs to see how others are creating.  When I want to learn, I take classes online, I watch videos, I read.  I have tried to provide some of those things in this space, but I think I can do more. 

There is beauty in the day to day. Even in dull moments, there is charm.  I think this past year has taught me a lot in appreciating the present moment.  Heck, I think it has taught me to see the present moment.  I might have been missing it before. I think it is so easy to get caught up in what is wrong or what is stressful and where you want to be and where you'd like to go that is not where you are; it is so easy to miss the wonders of now.  

Perhaps you may think it is cheesy, but I have discovered the power of positive affirmations.  Setting a little intention for the day to carry you through and to change the perspective a little on your daily thinking has proven to be...dare I say life changing?  The whole idea behind affirmations is to train your own thoughts. It doesn't always work, but if I find myself spiraling, sometimes repeating the affirmations I set helps to reframe how I look at my day. My affirmations for today:

I am where I should be. 

I can do hard things.

I am strong.

I hope you can find a positive affirmation. And until next time, happy crafting!

Also, does anyone know what flower this is?  I saw it on a walk and would LOVE to have one of my own. It is gorgeous.