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Year End Thoughts and Reflections

“It is important that when we make a resolution, or establish a goal, that we take the action necessary to accomplish that goal.”  – Steve Maraboli, a decorated military veteran. He served as Military Police (Security Forces) in the United States Air Force, from 1993 to 1997.

At the end of every year I think the same thing. How did it end so quickly and what will the New Year be like? At this time last year, as one of my year end resolutions, I made a decision to change things up with my work and apply for a fellowship through the Copley Society of Art. It took quite a bit of time to put a proposal together which included an essay, pulling together 20 jpgs of artwork that spanned the past dozen years or so, a frantic search for a thumb drive and an overnight delivery to Boston. I worked in advertising and publishing for many years, so meeting drop dead deadlines still feels natural to me I guess.  

I was thrilled to receive the news of my acceptance last April. But apparently my initial acceptance letter sent in early March was lost in the mail. It wasn’t until long after the notification date had passed that I followed up with an email, pitifully requesting the return of my thumb drive, that I immediately received a response that began with, “Oh dear! We sent a letter to you weeks ago! Congratulations!” Despite that little hiccup, preparations for a new adventure soon began. 

Receiving such an honor was a tremendous boost for my confidence and validated my self worth as a professional artist. It made me want to work even harder and try new things. For example, last May I took an advanced watercolor workshop in Portsmouth, NH conducted by renowned watercolorist Antonio Masi, President of the American Watercolor Society and author of several books on painting. Coincidentally, a few months later, we both had paintings accepted into the Hudson Valley Art Association’s 86th Annual Exhibition and we both won awards. It was the second time in the last few years that we’ve been in accepted into the same exhibition of that caliber. Once again – validation.

And so, at this time of year, my wish for anyone, no matter what stage of life, who feels a yearning to explore a new path for their creativity, is to push through the doubt and excuses and make it happen. Take a class or a workshop or just make time on a regular schedule (and keep to it) to nurture your talent. And never give up. You’ll look over your shoulder as another year comes to an end and feel grateful for all the good things that came into your life along the way.  

I’ll be taking a little break from posting for a couple of weeks. Cheers for a peaceful and healthy New Year! As always, thank you for reading and staying with me on this journey. If you’re a new reader, welcome! Please leave a comment. I enjoy hearing from you.  ~Sandy