“Moving forward requires letting go of the old story and stepping into new possibiities”
—Dawn Nargi
Dawn Nargi, Co-Founder of the WConnection, and I ran the first “Step Out” for the organization. It was our way of meeting with some of our members in person during the pandemic. Dawn is pictured in the back row on the right side, with her gorgeous smile and white WConnection t-shirt.
I learned how short life is when my husband died. I was 48 years old. I was overmedicated and wallowing in grief, literally on the floor for three years. The functioning part of me was devoted to taking care of my children. Otherwise, I was in darkness. I felt hopeless. I finally found my way by getting on a spiritual path and asking for and receiving help. I dug deep. I had to go to the bottom of the well before finding my way back up and out. I had all but given up. But somehow, I persevered. I slowly took steps to get back into the light. I made it. I have a very healthy respect for the contrast, but baby, I embrace that light.
I’ve learned that to embrace the light, you must follow your dreams. Otherwise, you're just phoning in this life. You're here for a reason, so get to it! Again, I suggest that you read "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks, if you haven't yet, and then read "The Four Agreements," by Don Miguel Ruiz. If you don't know them, they are:
Be Impeccable With Your Word.
Don't Take Anything Personally.
Don't Make Assumptions.
Always Do Your Best.
The WConnection is a national non-profit of widows helping widows take steps to rebuild their lives after the life-changing event of losing a spouse. For the rest of 2022, a portion of the proceeds of every sale of Wild Cherry Art will go to the WConnection.
When you live this way, the authentic you shines. When this happens, you're tapping into your mojo. My mojo took a little dip this year because, you know, life. But I am beyond grateful to be living the dream. I'm painting and serving my fantastic collectors, participating in shows, hosting events, writing music, traveling, volunteering, enjoying time with friends and family, and I'm dating. Life is really magical. If I can get to this place, you can too.
Seriously, this is your chance. Whatever you're waiting to do, figure out how to do it now. Start small, make a list, just take a few steps and get going. Being consistent and tracking your progress is the way to get there. Help helps. When you feel filled with joy and passion you're on the right path. Find ease in everything. Surrender. Connect. Do it with integrity and help others. Be the light. The world needs it.
Visit me at 36 Warren Court, South Orange, during the Tour and see 5 other artists on my block!
Come visit me at the 19th Annual SOMA Artists Studio Tour to see me living my best life. November 5th and 6th. It's back in full force. More artists than ever before. It's going to be sensational, and I'll be setting up inside the studio, which I'm thrilled about. I'm looking forward to showing you what's new!
This one will be completed for the tour. Come see it in person and catch up!
Mark your calendar, as soon as you're done reading, for the Wild Cherry Art Holiday pARTy on November 19. If you've been before, you know the deal. Art, live band, food, drinks, FUN!!! It's going to be slamming!
Now order those books, take those steps, join me on this amazing adventure.
I love you,
Leslie