the gifts
i believe that creating heals
paint across canvas
fabric stitched together
charcoal to paper
words to a screen
all of it
with each moment spent creating, brainstorming, writing, the heart fills with beauty, joy, truth...and as it fills, the heart cracks heal a bit.
this is the unexpected gift spring now gives me. tonight, as i think about the anniversary of my grandmother's death next week, i am once again grateful for the gift that a community of like-minded, open-minded, incredible, hilarious, gorgeous people gave me at artfest. this gift that is healing. and as i spent time in that community of people and pushed myself to connect, i found myself remembering my way back to the beauty of healing. remembering my way back to laughter. and, i also remembered my way back to words and the power of words and connection.
as i sit here sleepy-eyed in my little room tonight, i can hear the kind words of so many women. encouragement. affection. truth. teasing. honesty. i can hear the echo of their laughter inside my head.
i am grateful for the many gifts i received while in port townsend. from others, from myself, from the world around me.
thank you.
art + life, on grieving (and healing)
Reader Comments (12)
I think one of the hardest things in life is to lose a beloved grandparent. No one talks about it, but having been through it myself and how utterly painful it was (and still is)and I can honestly say it was heartbreaking and changed who I am forever. It's the loss of an unconditional love, a tie to your history, the magic between a grandparent and a grandchild. Granparents love you simply because you are alive.
I send you understanding hugs and hope that your loving memories of her will comfort you.
:)
I am so happy for you, Liz...
xoxo
I'm thinking of you during this time...I saw a sweet photo of you at Artfest on Misty's blog. You all are just luminous...I'm glad you got that experience.
Love,
D.
i just wanted to say how fabulous i think you are and how lovely it is to read that you have those words of encouragement and affection with you right now.
tell me more, tell me more......
I often just lurk but this mail made me want to say "Awesome"
Inspiring and moving...
thanks for sharing your words...
What magic words can bring!
Marie
I think enjoying the creations of others, like your poem, is healing as well.
yes, i find creating to be so healing, always what i turn to in times of sorrow, stress, grief. it is my constrant companion, the vehicle which i ride to experience the dynamic flow of the universe. spring for me too is a mix of birth and dying...i deeply long for my mother this time of year, i miss her so...
sounds as though you had a wonderful time ... and thank you for the gifts you share here :)
no more lurnking and reading without comment.....
your words are touching and inspiring......
you are a fabulous poet and a talented artist.....
kudos to you......
elizabeth