Passage - 18X24 painting

I feel a sense of trying to get through a difficult passage as I look at the piece.

THANKSGIVING

It may sound trite, but I do have so many things to be thankful for this year. Not only do I have a wonderfully supportive family, (they are my biggest fans) but friends who really care and understand who I am.

For so many years, I felt I had to be someone else. I always wanted to please everyone. Needless to say, that led to many disappointments. I kept people in my life,(and now I don't know why) who hurt and criticized me. I have weeded out all of those people, and realize I need to surround myself with positive people who believe in me. I feel so free now. I can "be" an artist, and a little crazy, and exactly who I am without fear of criticism. That is truly reason to give thanks this year.

So I give thanks to good family and friends and to God who has led me to this enlightenment about what is best for me. With this freedom has also come the freedom to create and paint what I want. I no longer do work to please anyone but myself. My work has grown exponentially. It's amazing what getting your head on straight can do for your art.

So Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I hope you all can find a reason to give thanks this season.