I am familiar with the struggle to let go of monetizing your work. I hope you feel a bit lighter for it, and the joy of creating continues to find rich soil this winter. I know you will. Best wishes, friend.
I already feel better! LMAO! I just need to be quiet in the dark for a while so I can write about how weaving saved my life. OH, and read about the dagda, because he keeps showing up for me. (YES IM MAKING THAT A STICKER)
Thank you for this reminder that all the natural world around us is quiet this time of year. "What would a field mouse do?" is a question my sister often asks me. I will be quiet, and peacefully awaiting your next words.
Write that book! Tell your stories. Share your knowledge and the bits of wisdom that have carried you through. I think, that as artists of whatever medium speaks for us, that is how we survive and thrive. Even while this experiment that is America seems to be burning in a giant dumpster fire. Sorry to be cliche here but there's a story of the phoenix for a reason. So let your fire burn bright and make what you will from the ashes. That's all any of us are really doing, yeah? Those of us who are not interested in "the American dream"? No, we have our own dreams and they are beautiful. Thank you for inspiring us to live ours.
As per usual Ellen, you come through with the perfect response. I am so grateful for your time an attention. Your close reading has provided me with wonderful perspective on how to move forward.
So much of this resonates with me too friend. I see you, and am really glad you are here sharing your thoughts, words, and beautiful art with all of us. 🖤
Wow my friend. I truly wish I had seen this essay when it came out. I have been in my own journey of surrender and just have to say that, as always, you’re words help me to identify the emotions that have been walking with me, truly, for much of 2024. I think the idea of our soul craft both liberating but also heart wrenching in such an extractive society. Caretaking, writing and art are all I know, and I know the systems in place don’t place much value in that. You’ve given me much to think about. I enjoy your work immensely, however you choose to share.
I've found monetizing work can lead to a toxic perverted version of the work sometimes. It's not worth it for every creative endeavor, in fact it's a straight up poison to some. It is very difficult to not view everything through the lens of "content" and "exposure" when you're on a creative career path. I commend you for taking the step back. I'm trying it myself but it is proving very difficult.
I am familiar with the struggle to let go of monetizing your work. I hope you feel a bit lighter for it, and the joy of creating continues to find rich soil this winter. I know you will. Best wishes, friend.
I already feel better! LMAO! I just need to be quiet in the dark for a while so I can write about how weaving saved my life. OH, and read about the dagda, because he keeps showing up for me. (YES IM MAKING THAT A STICKER)
😄haha!
Thank you for this reminder that all the natural world around us is quiet this time of year. "What would a field mouse do?" is a question my sister often asks me. I will be quiet, and peacefully awaiting your next words.
Well, I must say that I think you and your sister get it! hehehe Thanks for reading. From the bottom of my heart, it means the most to me.
Sending hugs, James.
I am just trying to be like beth and write award winning books, okay?!?! hehehehe
Write that book! Tell your stories. Share your knowledge and the bits of wisdom that have carried you through. I think, that as artists of whatever medium speaks for us, that is how we survive and thrive. Even while this experiment that is America seems to be burning in a giant dumpster fire. Sorry to be cliche here but there's a story of the phoenix for a reason. So let your fire burn bright and make what you will from the ashes. That's all any of us are really doing, yeah? Those of us who are not interested in "the American dream"? No, we have our own dreams and they are beautiful. Thank you for inspiring us to live ours.
As per usual Ellen, you come through with the perfect response. I am so grateful for your time an attention. Your close reading has provided me with wonderful perspective on how to move forward.
This is a beautiful reminder to center ourselves in this dark time. Be well in your journey. We will be here waiting for your next share.
You as well! May the dark provide you the space to renew and revitalize!
So much of this resonates with me too friend. I see you, and am really glad you are here sharing your thoughts, words, and beautiful art with all of us. 🖤
Wow my friend. I truly wish I had seen this essay when it came out. I have been in my own journey of surrender and just have to say that, as always, you’re words help me to identify the emotions that have been walking with me, truly, for much of 2024. I think the idea of our soul craft both liberating but also heart wrenching in such an extractive society. Caretaking, writing and art are all I know, and I know the systems in place don’t place much value in that. You’ve given me much to think about. I enjoy your work immensely, however you choose to share.
James, so much in here that is resonant and relatable, per usual.
I've found monetizing work can lead to a toxic perverted version of the work sometimes. It's not worth it for every creative endeavor, in fact it's a straight up poison to some. It is very difficult to not view everything through the lens of "content" and "exposure" when you're on a creative career path. I commend you for taking the step back. I'm trying it myself but it is proving very difficult.