I stumbled upon this picture while trying to find photos of my art for an upcoming art endeavor.
A feeling of nostalgia washed over me like a calm wave on an easy summer day, but I was quickly engulfed by an undertow of emotions as I thought about all that this picture represented.
I reminisced the days of being a single mom in a two bedroom condo- The too-frequent moments I felt abandoned, helpless, frightened, and grieved as a mother for the hearts of my children. A time when art was the only way to speak because the words wouldn’t come; when my art supplies fit into a small, brown wicker basket and my studio was a cozy, little corner on the kitchen floor. A place where redemption was found and grace abounded greater than the oceans tides.
There were parts of myself I let go of with unclenched fists as the sound of the lock clicked shut on the door to that season of our life in what we referred to as our little “shoebox”, but what I gained and carried with me from that season has opened new doors to places, people and circumstances that have given me eyes to see and a heart to share. It’s a beautiful reminder to me of why Paul instructs us to rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances.
There’s so much to be gained when we “let go” with unclenched fists to make room for what God has in store our lives.
I can’t wait to share the finished product of some of the commissioned pieces I’ve been working on. However, today I wanted to share my heart, because there are a couple of things in the works that I can rest assured are parts of a bigger picture of God’s sovereignty over circumstances I once questioned, but continued to trust him through.
My hope is that somehow sharing these words will be an encouragement to you today.
