Life Lessons from a show

I look at my blog list and see that I have been rather remiss at writing these past few months. Perhaps it is solely due to the fact that I seem to be able to take more turbulent changes with equanimity these days. The reason could be that most of the undesirable elements in my life have cleared out or it could simply be that I have seen such a degree of pain that normal disturbances or even abnormal ones are manageable in this particular state of mind.

The last month saw our little centre achieve an unprecedented level of success with the hosting of our superb exhibition. The children outdid themselves and the response was, to put it mildly, phenomenal. I felt immensely proud of them all and especially of my partner who has the ability to dream those dreams that are beyond my capacity to envision. Our friends (those who took the time to come) and families were so proud. I realized that those who verbally promise support even with their presence are often those who never do make an appearance. I also realize that those who publicly and privately proclaim their desire to aid will be the ones who merely pat us on the back and say “good job!” as though we were a particularly well behaved sort of dog.

Five newspapers carried our story. We had radio presence. TV 9 covered us. The hard work of months was rewarded by the amazement and delight of those who saw the art work on display. We also sold 90 percent of the pieces and got commissions for the young artists. We could not have asked for more. I feel grateful beyond measure as I look back on our impossibly difficult journey.

Every step of my life in the last 14 years has been hard. Most people would not understand that statement in the least. Problems that go away or that you can conveniently forget or buy off are those that do not scar you very long. Those that stay with you change you in ways that could mean a positive improvement or a depressive stance. One thing I have vowed to myself since my last birthday was that from now on I will speak my mind with no thought of diplomacy when I need to make things clear. I have been painfully polite to my detriment in many cases. I have helped beyond my capacity. I have stretched myself thin by being ‘nice’. I have been treated as though I did not matter or as though time spent with me was something that could be squeezed into a schedule most convenient to the squeezer. Being an afterthought in another’s life happens only if you let it happen. No one needs to be cut and shaped to fit into an available slot. No one needs to be too nice. If you believe in who you are, don’t compromise.

The exhibition brought us a lot of recognition and respect. It taught us that no matter how difficult the journey seems, if you are true at heart to what you value, things will work out. We all have a long way to go yet. The kids need more solutions. But as of today we are better poised to provide them with more options. When you serve out of passion, good things come your way. Always remember to cherish yourself and your ideas so that this one life you are gifted with is made worthwhile. Stay true. Be grateful. Learn.