Be A Ripple

wildflower, not weed

I noticed this little gem as I rushed past it the other day in front of my house. I walked up the two steps onto the porch with my arms loaded with groceries. I stopped and backed down the steps, and set my groceries down. I was struck by this amazing little thing growing between the concrete pavers. Some call it a weed. But after taking a picture, I did a little research finding some referring to the dandelion as a “wildflower.” Others weighed in with its symbolism representing hope, perseverance, and transformation.  That is likely true of many things I imagine, but I thought that the little flower before me exhibited exactly those things. A sense of hope, perseverance, and transformation. I mean really,  how can life manifest itself between cracks of concrete? And yet there it was.

This made me think of writers and artists everywhere. Working in all mediums. We are energized and given life by the Spirit that compels us to create. And then, when you do that, and if you choose to share it, a feeling of vulnerability is inevitable. No matter how beautiful, how masterfully crafted, or how extraordinary your creation is.

Each time I handed off my Synchronicity manuscript for the next stage of its evolution, which involved many people, I had to let it go on some level. And each time I felt anxious to have it returned to me, though physically it never left my side. And now with it published and literally available for the entire world to see, it takes vulnerability to a whole new level.

In some way, I feel like an observer. A little like that dandelion wildflower (not weed), who pushed her way through the cracks of a harsh world, only to turn up a brilliant sunshiney addition to a concrete path. A friend recently asked me what I thought makes a book successful. I laughed out loud alone in my studio when I mistakenly looked up the statistics of how many books are published in the U.S. each year.  How does 3,000,000 sound to you? Which confirmed my response to my friend.

I told her that I believe there are many, many wonderful books being published each year. And that the ones that shoot off the charts, (define that as you will), are usually successful, partly because of good writing, but also supported by relationships, connections, and the “right” someone stumbling upon it. There are just so many great books that never see the light of day.

The only way to celebrate a good book (or good art) is to share about it. Tell friends, and share on social media. Feature it in your book group. Give it as a gift. Donate to your library. Spread the word in whatever way makes sense to you. About my book or any others that you love. The authors appreciate that.  It’s like a ripple in a pond. I know it’s cliché’ but one person can make a difference. I also believe that the people who are meant to encounter my work, will find it. That’s how God works. So I leave it up to him. I did my part.

Until next time…be a ripple.

Abundant blessings to you on this amazing journey,

Patty