Memories of a Young Artist

I have always loved creating. It is a part of my soul. I remember pulling out picture books when I was a little girl and studying the characters in the book so I could draw them. It was so satisfying to see that my drawings resembled the ones in my storybooks. The first time I received praise from my peers was in elementary school when we had to draw our state (Texas) for a geography assignment. Everyone was amazed at how well I did. I will never forget that feeling. You see, I was not that great at reading, in fact, I have sad memories of kids snickering when I would make a mistake during read aloud. So, it was huge for me to feel such positive praise from my peers for accomplishing something that I was good at.

As an adult I often think about how crucial it is that we have people in our lives who will cheer us on, with no judgments. I am so grateful for wonderful friends and family members who have supported me in my dream of becoming an artist. I know that the negative thoughts in my head have been my worst enemies. I have learned that the more people I tell about my dreams, the more support I receive. Whatever your dreams are, I hope you will start voicing them so others can cheer you on and silence any negative thoughts that are keeping you from accomplishing them.

Who are some of those people in your life? What is it that they have done to make you feel supported and loved? I hope you will call them up, or write a letter and share how they have made you feel. If you need someone to cheer you on, send me a message! I truly believe that as we each individually reach out and support one another, we will be amazed at what we will each be able to accomplish together!

Kathleen’s 1st grade school photo circa 1988