I don't know much

I don't know how to be a "real" artist,

but I know that when I push paint around on a canvas, it makes me giddy with anticipation.

 I don't know if I'm a good parent

or if my kids will turn out alright,

but I know that the time I spent with Maddie making a painting (below)

was the best possible use of that half hour I could imagine.

I don't know the "right" way to be religious or to have a relationship with God,

but I know that when I sit quietly in my studio painting,

I feel the presence of the Spirit and sometimes that is enough.

I don't know how things will work out in my life,

or which direction the future will lead me,

but I know that when I immerse myself in creativity - leading, teaching, and doing - I am content.

I don't know how to keep up with all of the demands in my life,

but I know that if I don't find at least a little time for wild and carefree creative play, I go a little crazy.

I don't know how to do so many things - sing, dance, knit, draw -

but I know that when I give myself to the act of creating, I surprise myself again and again.

I don't know if I'll ever have a clean, organized house,

but I know that I will always surround myself with colour and light,

and most days, that feels like it's good enough.

I don't know if I will succeed at creating every day
(especially with a 4 cities in 4 days crazy business trip coming up in the middle)

but I know that I will have fun trying
and I will let "doodling in the margins" count as art.

With some fear and trepidation, I've joined "art every day month".