Just Breathe

There are times I begin to feel anxiety over all the things I 'should' do.  Now, should is a relative term, as I have learned the hard way in the past that I only need to do what I want, with a few exceptions.  The 'shoulds' in my life include taking care of myself and my family, being thoughtful and considerate, and doing what I love. 

But I sometimes get caught up in those things that grow my to do list and shorten my days which I tend to believe a professional artist should do...plan for my next exhibit (even though I am already working on one), write another article, take another workshop, join another group, try a new medium, basically do whatever else it is I see someone else doing...when all I need to do is simple really.

I should get up and enjoy every morning without a long list of the things I should do for that day.  I should talk and laugh with my daughter when she awakes.  I should care for my home and prepare a healthy and delicious dinner for my family.  I should enjoy those moments at work when I can contribute to my community in a way that fits for me.  I should enjoy the process of each and every moment I spend honing my craft.  These are the things that give me joy.  Oddly enough, opportunities tend to present themselves when I find myself doing just these things.

And finally, I should slow down and heed the words of Henry David Thoreau:

“Live each season as it passes;
breathe the air,
drink the drink,
taste the fruit,
and resign yourself to the 
nfluences of each.”