In Search of Wonder

Life has loveliness to sell
All beautiful and splendid things
Blue waves whitened on a cliff
Soaring fire that sways and swings
And children’s faces looking up
Holding wonder like a cup.
~ Sara Tisdale

Painting carries much wonder in it. So does writing.

When last I lingered over Monet’s waterlily paintings at the Musée de l’Orangerie I was mesmerized. The wonder of my first glimpse 20+ years earlier held more sparkle and magic than ever.

And I have often related to Emerson’s words When I read a good book, I wish my life were three thousand years long.

I guess I’m writing you now to remind you (and me) of the magic held in our collective creativity. Of its innate ability to raise our spirits and the spirits of others.

Creativity is sacred, and it is not sacred. What we make matters enormously, and it doesn’t matter at all. We toil alone, and we are accompanied by spirits. We are terrified, and we are brave. Art is a crushing chore and a wonderful privilege. Only when we are at our most playful can divinity finally get serious with us.
~ Elizabeth Gilbert, Big Magic

I experienced a moment of wonder in the making of Blue on Blue. I experience wonder in writing. And discovering very old writings that are very new to me.

Whatever it is that you long to create, I encourage you to not let fear hold you back.
Focus on the wonder and the sweet rewards of being part of this infinite dance. Choose your creativity—as Elizabeth Gilbert says—because it is the most effective way to access wonder.

For now may we

Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Blue on Blue
Oil on museum quality panel

In wonder,
Dreama

P.S. Somehow, when I write, I always feel gratitude for you. For your attention, for you reading my stuff, for just being here. It means a lot! You can receive my letters straight to your inbox by subscribing here. (My letters are free, of course!)