Should

I’m trying to get back into a regular practice of writing. I’m also trying to get back into a practice of making my art. For some of us, things flip like this. We set an intention and develop a regular practice. I call it “Showing Up!”

Then we struggle, but don’t be too critical of yourself. In order to show up we need to be present in mind, body and spirit. Your personal intention could be strong, but if your head, health, or heart isn’t into it don’t expect miracles.

I’ve mentioned before that I have a feeling like I’m in an artistic drought. I’m trying to make sense of it. I know there are a lot of distractions in my head (I’m not alone in this right now). There’s an external vibration around us which is sapping our energy, like being too close to high voltage transmission lines. I snap at myself “Focus!” as another distraction runs past me.

Then the “shoulds” arrive in full force dancing in front of me. I should do this, I should do that, I should do more. Yet at the end of the day, I remind myself that I gave all that I could and I remember to be kind … to myself.

Although it is important to show up, sometimes that means taking small steps. For example, like taking a few minutes to clean up and trying to organize the clutter in your life. Maybe you need to purge some things from your life; objects, obligations, or people. Just try to lighten the load you carry, both physically and mentally.

This week my “showing up” included lightening several loads. I made a trip stopping at several charity thrift stores to relieve myself of physical things that no longer served me. As I accomplished each tasks, I felt more ready for the next one. And, I actually started finding time to work on my art. A few minutes here, a few minutes there, … I showed up … and the result is I have a new art work in progress (WIP). I’ll take that as a win!