Perspective

A list of things I like, part two

1. The clear mind that comes from a long run on a sunny day

2. A fresh journal

3. Room for honesty

4. A pantry full of snacks

5. Reviving a plant

6. Getting mail from someone you love

7. “I thought of you…”

8. Saying no

9. Signs of winter’s end

10. Getting somewhere right on time

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Brain collage

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Speaking of lists…

I’ve written before about my daily gratitude list. The practice has made me a more positive person who can see the good in nearly every day. Sort of ironically, I’ve recently begun the practice of writing a list of things that pissed me off in a day. In the past, I was given the idea to write letters to people and situations that made me angry or frustrated as an antidote to bottling up my feelings. It’s a transformative practice that allows me to both gather and purge my thoughts. Sometimes I even rip the paper up into little pieces and imagine that the issues grows smaller as the pieces of paper do. These letters are wonderful, as they allow you to get all aspects of the issue—even (or especially) the petty stuff—off your chest to the completely non-judgmental third party of a piece of paper. That being said, they can take time and energy to do. So, this list of things for which I am sour acts as an express version.

Since starting, I’ve found that I don’t hold onto as many frustrations, and I feel a sense of freedom when I’m done. Sometimes it feels like an act of self love, like “Wow! I made it through this day where so many annoying things happened! Good for m!” It’s also allowed me to see that some things are minor and almost feel silly to add to the list. It’s offered me a perspective I didn’t know I needed, and I highly recommend the practice to anyone who feels like they’re carrying tension with them more than they’d like.

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Building blocks

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What do you see when you close your eyes?

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A note…

There are many exciting things happening in my life right now, and I am so thankful to be on the path I’m on. It feels like I’ve finally found the answers I’ve been seeking for a long, long time. Sometimes I can’t believe things were so hard there for a while these realizations have allowed me to stay present and grateful. With that, I wanted to say to my fabulous readers that these newsletters might be coming out sporadically for a while, but I so enjoy connecting with all of you and will do my best to keep it up. I also want to say thank you for reading this labor of love that’s been around for almost two years! It continues to be a creative platform that I’m so lucky to have. The responses I receive each week have helped me feel connected in a time that’s been largely isolating. Before the pandemic began, I was regularly gathering with friends to make art together, of any medium, and for no reason other than to make something beautiful. Thought a bit different, this has felt a little like making art with friends. Those who’ve contributed to Creative’s Corner enhanced this feeling greatly. Maybe I’ll see you next week, or maybe I’ll see you in a few. Either way, I’m happy you’re here.