The Art of Living

During these high-speed technological times, we must be reminded to slow down to the speed of life. Live life as an art, pursuing our aspirations and dreams and finding contentment in the small things. Living a more rewarded life requires exploring, mapping our life plans, and working hard to get results that give us pride and joy. Similarly, when I approach a blank canvas, I search for something that ignites my passion and sparks my imagination. I sketch the composition first, erase it as many times as needed, try various mediums, and then I proceed with colorful bold strokes.
Are you afraid of making mistakes? People change a few jobs until they finally land their dream job, the one they’re passionately connected to. We know that the process of finding who we are takes a long time. We’re presented with new possibilities every day, changing, and adjusting our course as needed.
While it’s true that focusing on our long-term goals is important to building our character, remembering to engage in fun short-term activities as well leave us feeling recharged and ready to do more.
I know that not every piece I paint is a masterpiece, but with practice and more work I improve, one stroke at a time. I also have the option of starting a new canvas, whenever I choose to, perhaps a smaller one just to feel satisfied and accomplished.
Lastly, don’t allow others to critique your work, intimidate you and make you feel insecure. Ignore the naysayers. The only validation, affirmations, and compliments you need are your own. Change your narrative to one that empowers you to claim your own voice. Find your unique style, dare to blaze your own trail, and leave your own mark behind.
Let life imitate art. Look inward, tap deeply to get in touch with your creativity, and examine what’s missing in your big picture. Is it more substantial texture, colors, values, and light? Be clear about your vision. Get deeply involved in the process as only you can make progress. Refine and master your skills to create your own beautiful and inspiring work of art. As Carl Yung said, “Who looks outside, dreams; Who looks inwards, awakens.”
Aligning with your authentic self will make you thrive, and your light will shine in radiant colors like an amazing painting displayed in a gallery impacting others. Your imagination is the only limitation.
Naomi Young is an educator of Jewish studies and a Bar/ Bat mitzvah tutor in Santa Clarita for 39 years. She is also a published writer and an artist.