About this time last year my “Aspirations” project was published in Somerset Life. This particular project was very close to my heart, and every bit of it reflected my most sincere hopes for 2009. These deeply rooted feelings sprang forth unexpectedly and with such force that it inspired me to write this spontaneous poem.
Aspirations
Goals for
next year must
not be forgotten.
Everyday counts
A chance to
GROW.
A chance to give
A chance to share.
Live in awareness
yet unselfishly.
With eyes open
mind open and
a ready heart.
My specific list of aspirations to embody the above ranged from the simple, remembering to smile more often, to four others that were more ambitious: listen truly, practice patience, avoid greed, maintain balance. For the most part I’ve kept these things in mind last year, and I’ve tried to follow this list as much as possible (practicing patience and maintaining balance were the hardest to keep up.) So as 2010 approaches and I look back, or rather forward…I don’t feel as if I’m ready to let go of last year’s aspirations quite yet. I think that I’ll need at least another year of practice for these aspirations to sink in…to settle beneath my skin. This realization is somewhat of a disappointment. I can’t help wondering, why am I not there yet? Why am I not the person I wish to be? However frustrated I’m feeling right now, I’m not planning to give up on my aspirations. Instead, I will work harder this next year towards becoming my best. Also, with no regrets I can honestly look back and see that although I wasn’t 100% successful in changing my ways, for the most part I think that some good change has occurred. This is enough encouragement for me to keep moving forward…to keep blossoming.
Speaking of changes and blossoming. Jenny Doh, a very special and caring friend has decided to take a chance by following her heart. She’s moving forward on a new venture that will no doubt bring hope and joy to many. For more exciting details on her mission please visit her blog (see her farewell post explaining her new plans.) 2010 will be the start of something very wonderful for Jenny…something wonderful for many.
Creating work and writing articles for Stampington under Jenny was a highlight of 2009. I learned so much and loved every minute of it. I’ve discovered bits of myself that I didn’t even know existed (some good, some not so good.) But I believe that digging deep is good, even if I don’t always like what I’ve uncovered. And I am sincerely grateful to Jenny for having given me so many opportunities this past year to explore and express my creative passions. This experience has lead me to truly find myself…know myself…trust myself.
And to start off the New Year at Stampington Publications, this newest issue of Somerset Life will be available on January 1st. As always, inside you’ll find fabulous ideas for inspired living. You’ll also see several of my jewelry projects featured in the article, Blissful Adornments.
May you all enjoy many moments of bliss going forward…Happy New Year!
6 Comments, Comment or Ping
Your aspirations are fundamental and wonderful. I think our aspirations are like prayer…something to be repeated and repeated until one day we are surprised to find they have already been met. It’s all down to the practice of patience – which is hard for all of us to maintain with the world whizzing by at the fast pace it goes.
I look forward to the January issue of Somerset Life.
December 16th, 2009
what a beautiful post, becky!! i’ll look forward to seeing your fabulous artwork in the new issue of somerset life……and i wanted to tell you that your work in art quilting studio was magnificent!!! i must admit that while i adore each of your features, the stocking at the end of the magazine is my all-time favorite…..they definitely saved the best for last!!! i am constantly amazed at how you can take such simple materials and create such beautiful projects…..you can make twine look better than anyone i know, girl!!! of course, creating art from the heart is always beautiful, and i truly believe that’s your secret….! hugs, xox
December 16th, 2009
Profound and simple thoughts blended together…i love your aspirations!!
It is wonderful that you incorporated this into an art form; What a great idea!
I can’t wait to see what you have in Somerset Life; I can’t find the Art Quilting Issue at B&N went there, today….again, nada.
I love how you used, garden terms, grow, digging dip…i find those words inspire me most; You are blossoming; i love the serene feeling your art
reflects.
Keep digging and blooming! (((hugs)))
December 16th, 2009
Sometimes the journey progresses rapidly – other times it seems to be at snail’s pace. Yet the things that take the longest to learn and achieve are often the most rewarding with deep roots that take hold with strength against the storm. You have chosen some difficult goals that can’t be achieved quickly – if they are, the roots may not be sustainable. Just the fact that you have chosen such goals says a lot!!
Can’t wait to see the January issue and your art – I always love your art!!
Blessings,
Lisa
December 16th, 2009
Thank you all for the wonderful support – you gals are the best! Thank you.
December 16th, 2009
something i always love about a new year is that we can look back and evaluate. but even better than that is knowing that we can move forward with hope to work on our goals. what a beautiful post. will i be able to wait patiently for the january issue of somerset life? i’ll try. thank you for all your inspiring art and words.
December 17th, 2009
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