Thank You, Georgia O'Keeffe!

Three friends and I went to Crystal Bridges to experience the Georgia O’Keeffe exhibit. What a joyous time we had together! Ms. O’Keefe had a glorious life in many ways, but experienced deep sorrow related to interpersonal relationships. Having studied up on her life before going, I knew when some of her darkest periods were, and expected to see them reflected in her art. I was pleasantly surprised to see that surrounding some of her deepest depression is some of her most vibrant painting! Following a complete breakdown, she didn’t paint for a year and a half. She then became somewhat of a recluse and began a whole new phase of her life. She is a study in confidence! One of her comments which struck me is this: “Someone else’s vision will never be as good as your own vision of yourself. Live and die with it, because in the end, that’s all you have. Lose it and you lose yourself, and everything else.” Thank you, Georgia, for the joy you brought to four women today!

“…we must first turn our gaze in the right direction, and then walk that way. We must form perfect models in thought and look at them continually, or we shall never carve them out in grand and noble lives.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 248:25-29

Expect Joy!

I have a friend who visits our town once a year with the intent of experiencing joy in every activity. He lives in Los Angeles and often tells me how much more fun our town is than his big city. I'm sure this is a matter of perception, but he brings something unusual with him when he comes to our town: pink nylon gowns and robes. He enjoys wearing these items and wanted to do so in public. After checking around on the internet, he found that Eureka Springs, Arkansas is one of the most accepting places in the country and so he visits us and enjoys expressing himself in a unique way. Although I don't know him in his natural habitat (so to speak!), I know he wakes up every day in our town expecting nothing but happy things and joy. And he receives them! Here's to everyone who is willing to live and love and allow themselves to express joy in whatever manner they are led to do so!

“We must form perfect models in thought and look at them continually, or we shall never carve them out in grand and noble lives. Let unselfishness, goodness, mercy, justice, health, holiness, love—the kingdom of heaven—reign within us, and sin, disease, and death will diminish until they finally disappear.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 248:25-32