Simple Abundance

I just got this book, Simple Abundance, A Daybook of Comfort and Joy, by Sarah Ban Breathnach. This book gives you advice on how to find your authenticity in your daily life--pursuing your authentic calling, with a reading for everyday of the year. The book came to me yesterday, (PaperBack Swap--LOVE) September 10th, so naturally I opened it to that day's entry and

I WAS BLOWN AWAY. It was written just for me! 

The quote for the day was: 

One sad thing about this world is that the acts that take the most out of you are usually the ones that other people will never know about. --Anne Tyler

So true!

From the book:

....Simply because you do it doesn't mean the rest of the world will think it's wonderful or even worthwhile. The sooner you realize that other people won't necessarily bless or appreciate your efforts to follow your calling, the happier you'll be. A lot of people--including your partner and children--might wonder aloud for years if you're ever going to become sensible again.

Oh yeah--I've lived this! This is a huge reason I took a break over the summer. Why was I creating things, it seemed no one cared about? Why was I putting so much energy and time into my crafting? Was it even bringing me joy anymore?  A huge amount of mental energy was being used on life changes here at home and 600 miles away with mom, and I just didn't see the point of crafting anymore. I started to realize why artists have the reputation of being either drunk or depressed all the time--they put so much into a painting-- their livelihood depends on that painting--and all the while, not knowing if anyone is even going to like it enough to buy it. But ya know what?

Crafting does bring me joy--so I started again--and I am happier for it!

Us crafters got to stick together! I loved the last line of the piece from the book; a lot of people--including your partner..--might wonder if you're ever going to become sensible again. uh-hem--My lovely hubby is supportive of my crafting obsession--but doesn't really understand! Even though I'm following a calling that means something only to me, I thank you--the followers--and the few who leave comments--it means more than you know!

Wishing you a day filled with gratitude, simplicity, order, harmony, beauty and joy!

Lisa