Open Drawing Studio - SFAI

I dropped in on this figure drawing class with a live model Friday night. At first the nude, curvy female body was a bit shocking, especially with copious, distracting cellulite. Definitely not representation of the perfect body that we are bludgeoned with from an early age! Images of various reality stars and celebrities in full advertisement of the supposed splendors of plastic surgery and airbrushing swept across my mind. What I found to be so interesting was that the longer I focused on her presence and drawing the lines of her body from various poses, the more beautiful her body became. 

My takeaway was receiving new perspectives on the overall magnificence and value of one's physical form no matter what shape.

Unencumbered Sleep

This morning was different. I woke up naturally after 8 hours of sleep without interference and imbalance from squawking crows and car alarms. Pausing before getting out of bed, I became aware of the absence of clenched fists and the calmness I felt. 

"I Matter"

Two simple words that make a profound statement. And, I know unequivocally that each human being on this planet believes this for her/himself or wants to.

The Greatest Love Of All

Especially in terms of lyrics, I believe this is the most significant song ever.

I believe that children are our future;
Teach them well and let them lead the way.
Show them all the beauty they possess inside.
Give them a sense of pride, to make it easier;
Let the children's laughter remind us how we use to be.
Everybody's searching for a hero;
People need someone to look up to.
I never found anyone who fulfilled my need.
A lonely place to be, and so I learned to depend on me.
I decided long ago never to walk in anyone's shadow.
If I fail, if I succeed. 
At least I lived as I believe. 
No matter what they take from me,
They can't take away my dignity.
Because the greatest love of all is happening to me.
I found the greatest love of all inside of me.
The greatest love of all is easy to achieve.
Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.
I believe that children are our future;
Teach them well and let them lead the way.
Show them all the beauty they possess inside.
Give them a sense of pride, to make it easier;
Let the children's laughter remind us how we use to be.
I decided long ago never to walk in anyone's shadow.
If I fail, if I succeed, at least I lived as I believe. 
No matter what they take from me,
They can't take away my dignity.
Because the greatest love of all is happening to me.
I found the greatest love of all inside of me.
The greatest love of all is easy to achieve.
Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.
And if by chance that special place that you've been dreaming of
Lead you to a lonely place
Find your strength in love

Songwriters: Linda Creed / Michael Masser

The Greatest Love of All lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Love

Jane Fonda recently said, "You want to be seen. You want to be safe. You want to be celebrated. If you don't feel seen, safe or celebrated, get out."

A wholehearted amen! And, as a testament to my life, this pertains to family as well as partnerships.

Frayed Family

I have dealt with this for a very long time. I know I am not alone in experiencing the devastating effects of unhealthy family systems and vitriolic behavior, especially from jealous female siblings and likely mother. As a child, I was a victim. As an adult, I am not. Although extremely challenging to avoid getting pulled into unconsciousness and reacting therein, my focus is securing my path towards transpersonal.

This painting expresses some of my angst.