Today, I wrote a journal entry. It was meant to get me started writing, and air out the emotions stirring in me.

 I wrote about loneliness. I thought about posting it publically, but deemed it too personal. 

I thought getting out my feelings might help me focus on what I wanted to write about art. There are several topics I’ve been wanting to touch on lately. None of them are really about this thing I’m feeling acutely today (though the feeling is subsiding with every word I type). 

I don’t want to switch topics. It doesn’t feel “present”, true. 

This feeling is alive in me right now. LONELINESS. And I’m learning to ride these waves of emotion in a present, mindful way that contributes to finding the focus I’m after.

Not to let the emotion control me. The opposite. 

So I’m going to begin a new practice today. I’m going to write about what’s alive. I’m going to let the flow guide me, instead of a list of topics. In this way I will be true to the present moment.

So I will write about loneliness today, because it’s what’s alive. 

… . 

I would be willing to bet that loneliness is alive in you, now. 

Is this accurate?

I wonder what is prompting this feeling in you. 

I wonder if it’s the pressure that makes you feel lonely. I wonder if maybe it’s the lack of support you feel. Maybe it’s uncertainty and fear. Or the wish for someone to share in the victories. Could be that the isolation involved in creating is the most uncomfortable part for you. We’re all different. It could be many things. 

But there’s another thing present in you I hope you’re remembering today.

Courage.

You cannot sit for long hours and pour over expression without courage.

You cannot offer up your creation for judgement, good or bad, without courage.

You cannot open your mouth to reveal the inspiration behind your work without courage.

You cannot chase your Legend without courage. 

That is how I know it is present in you. You’re an artist. One cannot carry this title and lack a courageous spirit. 

“The act of courage calls forth infallibly that deeper part of ourselves that supports and sustains us.”

And that is how I know you will overcome the loneliness you might also be feeling.

It’s how I know I will. 

With every word. I. type. 

(Source: loneliness)