Wide Net, San Francisco, 2009.
Thank you for your feedback on my post about Lessons learned! Given your feedback, it sounds like many of you would like to read more about what is going on in my studio, what I am learning and how I am dealing with the challenges in my career change. So, my friends, here I give you: part deux (of many more to come).

Many artists and authors have written about this. But not until it happens to you, it really hits home, you know? This has been a big lesson for me in the past few months and not an easy one (obviously, as it’s taken a whole post ;))
I would have to say that creating a sacred friendship garden is my top #1 item learned and confirmed. My weeding and planting, started actually about 2 years before I quit my job. In terms of weeds, I guess I kept hanging onto a few (unfortunately in some ways still do) that had a long history of growth, perhaps calling them wildflowers even. But you know what? As soon as I quit my job, it became very clear to me who my friends really were. The ones who cared to ask how I was, the ones who called to check up on me, the ones who, no matter how busy they were, kept on nurturing and cheering me on (Thanks, Cita!)… Even the ones who cared to read my journey here (a soar spot for me..) It was quite alarming to see who were the people who actually stepped up and, dare I say, had any interest in me and my well being. Not many, I might add. Not many. Even when I reached out… Not a peep. This is sad. I never thought it would happen to me. I am a person who gives, gives, gives… I’m a nurturer and lover above all. But when the time came for me to call some shots and receive a little support, some people who had been takers of my time and support for years, vanished. Others, who had heard me sob in the lowest lows and knew how much this change meant for me… You guessed. Vanished as well. Others went as far as being against me and got upset when I actually decided to better my life? Seriously. Truth is that strength and courage is intimidating and threatening to some individuals comfort zones. For some people it is very convenient to keep you in the gutter, especially if that gives them some kind of control or advantage. They can deal with that. Or in another scenario, if we are all victims, that also feels comforting to some. It helps them feel better about their own issues.
So I’m not going to embellish this one: In order to have a healthy and prolific dream, you gotta weed, baby! It is a hard truth and it is hard work. For one thing, my back is sore and my knees are scraped, just as they were when I used to fall, while learning how to ride a bike. On the other hand, I feel relieved. Now I know how to stand on my own. The worst has passed. Now I can move forward with another level of appreciation for myself and my integrity. Even if I have to go back to my old job… Well, I’ll still have a sacred garden where I can rest. I’ll still know where to reach for the lavender scent to lift me up. That is reassuring and refreshing.
Besides, now I have this wide field, with lots of breathing room and only beautiful flowers. Like I said, the planting started way back. Cast a wide net! Reach. This is so true. I am pleased that those hopeful seeds I planted, have bloomed into a vibrant and beautiful patch. I now have my own oasis, where I intend to only grow creative, strong and kindred seeds. In that space I can be scared and brave at the same time, I can slip and pick myself up all over again, knowing that I am held by unconditional love and kindness. There is a place for all kinds of people in our lives: family, classmates, colleagues, childhood friends, other expats… However, make no mistake: only special blossoms belong in the ‘sacred oasis’, where you cultivate your dreams. Even if your true support is only coming from one source. It is all it takes. Just one ‘human bean’ like you, that sees you, loves you and supports your growth is enough. Find that common thread, plant that seed and watch your life flourish! Mine certainly has… And I believe it will continue to do so more and more. This is not something that requires you to quit your day job to do. Look around and see who are the people in your life and how they match, or not, who you truly are in all your potential. Surround yourself with those who can love and expand horizons in the same measure as you.
My friend Kelly Rae also wrote about building community in her book and my friend Swirly wrote about this process here and in her book as well. Get yourself some tools and plant some miracles, as Swirly would say. I know I am not inventing the wheel over here, but sometimes it takes listening over and over to make a move. Find your peeps! It is so important and will save you energy and disappointment in the long run.
And check out Swirly’s amazing new project! Brought tears to my eyes.
At the end of the day, it’s all about the fine buds in my life :) They make it happen!
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On a totally separate note, I have a fun announcement ~
The Shining Star photo sessions are going on the road!
Yahooo! Gotta love that gypsy energy in the air!
NY & Atlanta
(If you live in any of these two cities and are interested in getting your portrait taken by me, email me at gypsygirlsguide@gmail.com for details. I’m offering a very special rate to my readers and I still have a couple of spots available in each location)
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And you? Have you experienced anything like that yet? Care to share your experience to empower others?