in Gentle Holding

Creating art can teach us something about ourselves. Sometimes, it is my story that comes through the piece and other times, I feel like it is someone else’s. Maybe an ancestor, maybe a universal truth, or maybe for the person the piece is meant to be with. I really love capturing the story of my artwork. I listen as I create to the emotions I’m feeling and to the whispers I hear, and I sit with it after and allow the story to emerge.

This is a story about feeling safe and learning to trust in ourselves and each other. Do you recognize any truths in this?

She doesn’t yet know if this strength is hers or theirs—

whether it is safe to step out,

or how to step forward with an open heart.

She quietly watches,

with a gaze of fierce protection

for that which is most tender,

most true.

I don’t see how she chooses—

in the gentle holding,

from behind the shield.

I wonder how deep acceptance unfolds,

how strength holds memories of quiet knowing.

Is it safe?

Am I safe?

How do I feel safe

even when it is safe?

Let the knowing be the strength.

Let the knowing be the shield.

Let the knowing free the heart.

Let the strength be hers, theirs, and ours.

The shield and the step, both sacred.

Both true.

Finally, with Love