Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "Be an opener of doors for such as come after thee." Those are rich words. They are focused on others and not on one's self which seems to be pretty prevalent these days and I'm getting so weary of all the self-absorption. Others. Not you. When oh when will we figure that out?
I am honored to be the feature in this month's "Artist Portfolio" in Somerset Studio. One of the art pieces I created for the article is based on these words. This piece will eventually make it back to my home and will hang as yet another reminder to focus where focus is due.
I am re-reading the biography of Amy Carmichael whose motto was "Love to live. Live to love." I like that. That's a good motto. The Somerset article, written by Ricë, a girl who loves to live, tells more about my view on life, art and even a little on raising children. So enough on that, except to say I'm honored to have had this opportunity.
And so now would be a good time to do something nice for someone else (even--ouch--someone you don't like).
Love the Emerson quote :) I struggle with teaching my teenagers (13 & 14) that no, it is NOT all about them. Wonderful timing with your post; last night our dinner conversation centered on spending more time volunteering in our community on projects that are not necessarily "easy", "fun" or "glamorous." We volunteer to bless others by doing what needs to be done, not to entertain ourselves...
Thanks for the inspiration :)
Posted by: Shelly in SoCal | 22 October 2009 at 11:32
What a wonderful quote and a beautiful piece of artwork. I look forward to reading this article.
Posted by: Barbara | 22 October 2009 at 11:35
I just began listening to The Purpose-filled Life on tape (I am a few years behind the times, I guess), and yesterday's chapter was "It's Not About You". Such a timely post. Especially when, as a stay-at-home wife/mom with a toddler, I can sometimes feel the pull to do what I want to do rather than putting my family's wants first. Thank you.
Posted by: Suzette Ladouceur | 22 October 2009 at 11:55
Thank you for another lovely and meaningful, Rebecca. Which Amy Carmichael biography are you reading?
Posted by: Marcy | 22 October 2009 at 11:59
What a perfect quote to live by. I love Somerset Studios and am so excited to read this month's issue so that I can see more of your beautiful work and read more of your thoughts. Congratulations! xoxo Gigi
Posted by: Gigi | 22 October 2009 at 12:00
A wonderful quote and a beautiful art piece. Is your feature in the October issue or the next one? I ask because I rarely buy the ones with all the Halloween stuff in them - just not for me. But if you are featured...well, I'll just have to check it out!
Lorrie
Posted by: Lorrie | 22 October 2009 at 12:02
even though the doors may be heavy sometimes, the effort makes a difference. what a beautiful reminder of these thoughts through your art work.
Posted by: Ludid | 22 October 2009 at 12:39
How on earth did you get to be so smart? A true artist, BUT more than that a true person. True to what you stand for, wanting to do more, and be better... there is nothing better Rebecca! You shed light in a dark world, and expose the darkness for all to see. I love your words, and these reminders to take a look in the mirror and see who we really are! No wonder Stampington shares you and your voice with it's readers!! Bravo smart girl, bravo!!
Posted by: Dede Warren | 22 October 2009 at 12:59
That's a perfect thought for today (and always, actually). And a truly lovely expression of the thought/words in your art. Thank you for sharing your real self.
Posted by: KateinCleveland | 22 October 2009 at 13:38
Rebecca,
Beautiful art and a tall order. Why can't all messages come looking so lovely? Thanks for the nudge in the right direction.
Anne-Liesse
Posted by: Anne-Liesse Ankeny | 22 October 2009 at 13:56
such a rich and humble piece ~elk
Posted by: RedorGrayArt | 22 October 2009 at 15:09
I'm amazed at how you always seem to have just the right words {yours or borrowed} to gently guide your readers ...inspiring us all to be better, to do better, to live better. Once again, thank you. And that latest piece of art is just lovely; I think you've just outdone yourself {at least until the next one}!
Posted by: Leah C | 22 October 2009 at 15:09
Hello Rebecca,
Your blog is certainly a treasure found. Your artwork is beautiful. Thank you so much for the lovely quote. Enjoy a fabulous coming weekend.
Smiles...
Beverly
Posted by: tea time and roses | 22 October 2009 at 15:10
Congratulations on such a beautiful article! I'll try to remember the "even someone you don't like" part...
Thanks for the reminder!
Posted by: Victoria | 22 October 2009 at 17:42
I read your article in Somerset Studios. I've always loved your artwork and was please to see you be featured in the magazine. Rice is a talented writer and she captured your essence beautifully!
xo
jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | 22 October 2009 at 23:33
congratulations, Rebecca! and so cannot wait to see you, my wonderful friend, in a few short weeks! xoxo
Posted by: charlotte | 23 October 2009 at 07:58
CONGRATS- A BEAUTIFUL ARTICLE- LOVE YOUR INSIGHTS AND YOUR WORK.
Posted by: TERRY SWEET | 23 October 2009 at 14:46
do share the title of the Amy Carmichael book you are reading...would love to know.
thanks for the beauty...you are amazing.
Posted by: Raejean | 23 October 2009 at 19:51
I sat speechless watching your slide show on flickr! This is the most amazingly creative work I have ever seen.
Posted by: Anna R | 24 October 2009 at 00:22
Hi Rebecca~
I found your Blog through Somerset Life and thoroughly enjoyed seeing your work. It is absolutely lovely.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Warmly,
LuLu Kellogg
Posted by: LuLu Kellogg | 24 October 2009 at 12:15
Love the quote and your great art !
Have a great weekend !
Love from Rini
Posted by: Rini Boer | 24 October 2009 at 12:22
Congrats Rebecca, I'll be on the look out for it.
Love what you've written here too :)
Posted by: Carolyn Peeler | 24 October 2009 at 19:00
Great article, and such humbling thoughts. I am facing a difficult challenge this month and your thoughts and the comments to them remind me, "It's not about me".
Thank You.
dd
Posted by: dianne dolan | 25 October 2009 at 00:09
Lovely work from your lovely heart Rebecca!
Somerset has a treasure in you:) I can't wait to drink it in. Thank you so much for sharing this post. Words of great value. I love that you not only share valuable words, but that you are a woman of valuable action to back up those words!
Posted by: Cherie Wilson | 25 October 2009 at 20:01
congratulation rebecca!!
you have an amazing gift. i love how you combine word with art ....touches my heart everytime
xo
Posted by: paige | 26 October 2009 at 09:53