Emerging Courageous Newsletter78
Marilyn Dixon Pfanstiel, Editor
Oct. 28, 2005
Thoughts for the Day: Affirmation
Last night was the first night out since my oral surgery to remove an abscessed tooth four days ago. Graduates in The University of Kentucky School of Gerontology, as a project, recognized the arts that “aging” seniors (over age 60) who take free art classes available through the University created, by participating in an art show and reception at the local Radisson. Thirty artists (including me) participated with about three or more paintings apiece. Some brought note cards to sell. Most of the art was for sale with some just for display. Along with four of my watercolor landscapes, I also brought my Kentucky Images postcards that I designed from rural Kentucky scenes I photographed. Then I brought my book Women Emerging Courageous and displayed it along with my art and photograph postcards.
One of the coordinators came by during the evening and I remarked that I brought my book as well as my art and she said that was great. Then she mentioned that the Readers Theatre Group would be doing some short plays in a little while to entertain everyone and would I be interested in doing some readings from my book. Surprised and elated, I responded positively. Then I became anxious about what I should choose to read. As I glanced through the book, I recalled several poems that I just read last week at a book program and signing at the local library. I struggled to find them. Then I came across my poems that I had written…”My Fire” and “After the Storm”. Why not read my own poetry this time as most of these artists know me? That decision was made.
As I stood up before the mike to read, I saw familiar faces smiling down at me and it gave me courage. After I read them, and received a wonderful ovation, several friends came up and said how nice it was and they were still rereading their books they bought. Strangers came up and mentioned how we all go through storms in life and it makes us stronger. Another person said my description of the sky after the storm was so vivid, she could just see it. More people came by to look at my artwork, photo images on my postcards and bought the books and cards for friends. One young girl was sending the cards to her brother with the US troops stationed over in Iraq. I hoped he would return safely. I thanked her for sharing my pictures of Kentucky with her brother. She said they were lovely.
I felt a growing humility with the sincere appreciation and accolades of my artwork and presentation. It gave me renewed strength to desire to continue in the direction my life is now leading me. A word of encouragement goes a long way. Who can you encourage along life’s Journey?
Marilyn Dixon Pfanstiel
Words to Ponder:
Our reluctance to throw ourselves into life with all that we are -- to abandon ourselves, come what may -- is born of the fear we may not be enough to succeed. But the truth is that within us dwells more than we take ourselves to be . . . and only by leaping do we learn of unseen wings that open only in mid-air. Guy Finley
A Reminder of the power of gratitude in the transformation in our lives and those we touch. Shared by Nona Boatright, President University of Kentucky Woman’s Club
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity and an understanding of life that fills them with compassions, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
“I Can’t Paint, I Can’t Write, I Can’t Sing”
by Cathy Zunker
“Wondering Why” by Terri McPherson
http://www.geocities.com/emergingcourageous/poetry/Oct2003/wondering.htm
*Footnote:
Encourage others along their path. It will make a difference. Tell me who has
influenced your life and how it has made a difference so I can share it with my
readers.
Marilyn Dixon Pfanstiel, Editor
[email protected]
www.emergingcourageous.com