I wrote last week of returning to my roots, to Harrison Hot Springs, and to Bowen Island.
One of the joys of vacation is that I can lose myself in art, and there is so much to inspire!
My mother used to say that there is always a “re-entry” phase to coming back from a rest or retreat. Sometimes it is literally coming from calm to a full life. So I write from that place, coming home and entering in, after my heart has been stretched and renewed.
In BC we are all on high alert right now with all the forest fires and thinking of all those who have suffered such a difficult year – first with floods and now with so many displaced. It feels like we are in a tinder-box, and there is a fragility to life. We are not in control.
So I go back to my art. It brings me peace. Merton said “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” This continues to resonate with me.
Today I had much joy in creating art with some of my grandchildren, this is one of the grander things in life, to paint with a child, and all else that is on our mind ceases to have such a hold.
As summer continues to unfold – with challenging times for many, restful vacations for others, and just regular life, I pray that we can find times of refreshing. Whether it be in creating something beautiful, or just enjoying some fresh fruit in season. Whatever moment we are in, to cherish it to the fullest. And then go play with some crayons.
