Thursday, September 29, 2011

Finding my Wings





~ Disappointment to a noble soul is what cold water is to burning metal; it strengthens, tempers, intensifies, but never destroys it. ~Eliza Tabor
 


For the past 9 months I have worked diligently...creating art, stretching myself, taking classes, learning how to love me...finding my voice.
 
I had finally mustered up the courage to sign up for a craft show and began purchasing supplies, painting and planning.

Tuesday all my plans, all my dreams came to an abrupt end.
 
 
"Hello this is Leslie Ackman and I was calling about my booth space for the show in October," I said happily.

"Are you from Maryville?" the lady on the other end asked.

"Yes." I replied.

"We gave your booth away and there are no more available spots." the lady explained in a terse way.

"What did you say?" I asked slowly.

The not very nice lady proceeded to tell me in a not very nice way that I, in fact would not be able to have a booth at their show and to try again next year.

"But how can that be? I paid for my spot and signed up and have worked so hard on my art."  A  lump was forming in my throat, making it nearly impossible to speak.

"We are sorry,Mrs. Ackman. You can try again next year. Have a good day." 
 

That was it. It was settled. I would not be going to Clarinda. I would not be selling my art, meeting new people, passing out my business cards.

I was devastated.
 
 
I sat in my office and cried.
Then cried some more.
 
 

Then.....
 
I remembered....


I am a Brave Girl.
 
 
 
 
 

Brave Girl's have a motto...
 
 

"She Did it Anyway".
 
 
 
 
 
 

And not only am I a Brave Girl but I create Brave Girl Art
 
And it may not be for everyone. It may not speak to you...but it speaks to me. It's what's inside of me. When I create my goal is to uplift. It's to make you excited about who you are and what you want to accomplish in your life.
I create what's in my heart. 


It is a choice we artists make, that is not too unlike love, where we find ourselves venturing into a realm of total vulnerability."  -Kirk Wassell
 
 
So, I did what any Brave Girl would do in that situation. I stopped crying. I put my wings on and made a plan. I contacted the not so nice lady, explaining my disappointment and hurt I had in my heart. It was a case of miscommunication and I made the choice not to blame.
 
Instead I took their offer...a free space outside. Nothing fancy, not in the flow of traffic...but I took it. The space is free and yes, I do take the chance of being rained out or a windy day. But I have decided that this dream of mine is too important.
If I don't do this one thing, my creative dreams may be put on hold once again and I'll lose my courage.
 
So I plan on staying the course. I have several more items to create, pricing to do, gift bags to get ready and collage kits to pack. But I am doing this. I am not giving up.



"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do."  -Mark Twain


I am a Brave Girl.

12 comments:

  1. Wow, that was brave indeed. The initial devastation must have been dreadful and to come back and arrange a way of doing it anyway was brave. I really hope you have an excellent time and find it works out even better for you this way.

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  2. Ok, I'm collecting my thoughts...first, I can't believe they did this to you! Did they refund the booth cost? Second, way to go YOU! What a gracious and creative way to continue on. I understand about the let down (my 1st show this year was cancelled). I'm proud of you Brave Girl - it's those who continue through the obstacles that reach success! :-)

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  3. Leslie,
    So sorry to hear that this happened to you. I was planning on going just to see you and your work. What can I do to help? Do you know anyone who has tent in case of rain? Also, do you need extra tables? Let me know if I can help.

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  4. You ARE brave indeed....yay you for the courage you mustered to ring her back...and yay you in the first place to take the big step putting your art out there...I know you will be a success...your work exudes your wonderful character and thats what art is all about...the passion of the piece...wish i was there to support your stall....a tad to far to travel dont you think!...lol...take care...xxx

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  5. Everything happens for a reason whether it be a lesson to learn, being spared from something far worse, or a joyful moment. I firmly believe the not so nice woman who slighted you will answer for her actions as all of us must do. I'd would much rather be in your shoes than hers, just sayin.

    Art in general is a tough business. Lots of critics. My son is a photographer and ex-singer. Follow your heart. Nothing is more rewarding than a fan or in your case, brave girl appreciator. Hundreds may pass your table but that one person who relates to your art, your style, your creativity will make it more than worthwhile!

    Good luck :)

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  6. Cheering from afar! Sad that things werent the way you planned, glad that alternatives were there. You are Brave to stick to your plan. For most it would have meant the rubbish hit the fan (so to speak)
    Well done to have gathered your composure and kept Your Dream in sight.
    Good luck with it :)
    Who knows. The change of stall/location might be a blessing in disguise....

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  7. Oh Leslie- my heart dropped when I read the first part of what happened...but then I put on my wings with you and...soared too!! You are such a brave girl! Truly! I am so right there with you in your heart...you go! I always think that everything happesn for a reason...no matter how small it may seem. Who knows...maybe you are meant to be outside for a wonderful encounter/experience. You go girl! If I were close by I would certainly come and visit your booth and cheer you on. well...i can cheer you on from over here too:)

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  8. Leslie - oh my goodness!! I wish you the BEST of luck with this...your art work is beautiful! I wish I could come and visit your booth and offer my support. By the way, I simply LOVE the "Stay the Course" art piece you did! Absolutely lovely! Good luck with this - I'll check back on your blog to see what happens!!

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  9. Good for you! I am so sorry that this obstacle was put in your way, but congratulations on finding a way around it to continue pursuing your dream!

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  10. You are so wonderful, Leslie! This experience inspires me. Go for what you want, and don't let people deter you! It's something I could use reminding of, as well. Your art is beautiful.

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  11. What is that saying? "when life hands you lemons .. . . "?? My friend, I am so sorry that this happened, but I am SO PROUD of how you handled it! SO SO PROUD of YOU! I am certain this woman had no idea what she was doing to your spirit. It's such a lesson to all of us . . . That what we say and do has the potential to change a persons journey in life. That is . . . If we let it. I am so proud of you for NOT letting it. You are BRAVE!!! Hugs!!!!

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  12. I'm sorry to hear things didn't go as planned,. But I am proud of you and your go get 'em attitude. I wish you the best with your outdoor space and I wish I could be there to support you in person.

    And happy anniversary :-)

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I appreciate your thoughts and ideas...they inspire me!! I will be visiting you soon. Have a CREATIVE day!!