“Jump, and you will find out how to unfold your wings as you fall.” Ray Bradbury
This quote became my mantra two years ago.
I had been a middle school art teacher for twelve years. Being a teacher, of course, is very fulfilling in many ways. It is also extremely demanding on your physical, mental, and creative energies. During this time, I was also living with Chronic Active Epstein Barr Virus (or as my friend calls it, Chronic Arctic Einstein Butt). In a nutshell, the mononucleosis virus is chronically active in my body, never going into remission, causing a constant and intense source of fatigue and poor immunity. Year after year, I would become sick at the beginning of fall semester and stay sick until school let out. I attempted to lighten my load at school, but if you’ve ever taught in public education, you know that’s, um, not possible.
Two years ago, I had a bonafide meltdown in front of my parents, in the middle of my favorite restaurant -- complete with heave-sobbing and booger-bubbling and profuse-upper-lip-sweating – and I knew something had to drastically change. I have wonderfully supportive parents and friends who I confided in, and who gave me guidance and courage to step away from my job and focus on healing. I saved every spare penny, enough for one year’s salary, and then… I jumped! Twice! My first jump involved taking a year of personal leave from my teaching position and, one year later (starting this month), my second jump involved moving forward as a full-time artist.
I truly found out how to unfold my wings as I fell… once I made the decision and opened myself up to possibilities, doors and windows opened all over the place. It was almost as if projects and artists and galleries were waiting for me to come out and play. Things practically happened for me, and when I sought out opportunities, I usually got a huge and hearty YES. I take it as a sign that I’m heading in the right direction! My current obsessions are encaustic mixed media, handbound books, and visual journaling.
The butterfly has recently become a powerful symbol for me, signifying this period of personal transformation and growth.
I invite you to see more of my work and hear more of my story
http://www.art-is-try-artistry.blogspot.com and my website http://www.art-is-try-studio.com
http://www.art-is-try-artistry.blogspot.com and my website http://www.art-is-try-studio.com
Teresa, thank you for the opportunity to share my story and for such a lovely presentation. What a wonderful site you have started, it's like receiving a big group hug. Best, Erin
ReplyDeleteThank You, Erin for allowing me the honor of sharing your story! Yes.... It a group hug and a cheer leading squad all rolled into one.
DeleteErin I loved reading about your personal growth and transformation that has led you to jump into what you feel called to do. I love your Etsy Shop, your art work is beautiful. Look forward reading your blog posts on your site. All the best on this new journey.
ReplyDeleteThank you Suzanne! All the best to you as well!
DeleteWonderful story and great artwork!
ReplyDeleteI hope that your health is improving, too!
Thank you! I have sen slow improvement. The virus could go into remission, which is my hope, but meanwhile I have a gentle, restful career that allows my body to function at the right speed :)
DeleteErin, after having just met you...I loved reading more about your blooming....and what a great site this is too!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Stacie! p.s. Teresa--Stacie's a late bloomer too!!!
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ReplyDeleteOh, I wish you the best! Take good care of yourself, your body and health are incredibly important. Most people who have symptoms with the virus (namely, mono) recuperate in about 6-12 months, so hopefully you are in the clear. But do take care of yourself so that it doesn't reappear. Good luck with the start of school!
DeleteOMGGoodness.... I removed this comment in error. I was messing around in administrator. I am sooooooo sorry. Teresa
Deletegood blog :) more info on the mono virus at www.what-is-mono.info if required
ReplyDelete