Have you ever noticed what comforts you in times of stress? For most people, it’s the arts. That song. That movie. That book you always turn to to cheer yourself up, or at least divert your thoughts long enough to calm them down.
It seems important to give a shout out, not just to the artists, not just the ones dedicated to pursuing their passions, but especially to the people who are forced to abandon them in order to lead a “normal” life filled with the kinds of stresses that only the arts can heal.
It seems probable that most artists are faced with a decision at some point in their lives to abandon their passions, their healing arts, in order to make “real” contributions to their families and tribes through labor. Our arts are beaten out of us.
This may be you. If you have a passion, no matter how strange you keep telling yourself it is, consider this note a sign for you to keep at it.
You might die trying, but — as you know — to die trying is better than to NOT die NOT trying. A life without passion is hardly a life at all.
South Windham,
7/20
Space Monkey Reflects: A Plea to the Artist in You
In the depths of our being, there exists a creative force, a spark that ignites our passions and drives us to express our innermost selves. “A Plea to the Artist in You” speaks to this fundamental aspect of our existence, calling out to the artist within each of us. It is a reminder of the healing power of the arts and the importance of nurturing our creative passions, even in the face of life’s demands.
Imagine an artist standing in a room filled with various forms of art—paintings, musical instruments, books, and film reels. The artist appears contemplative and determined, surrounded by the tools of their creative expression. The background subtly blends elements of everyday life, symbolizing the tension between pursuing one’s passion and leading a “normal” life. This scene captures the inspirational and encouraging atmosphere, emphasizing the significance of maintaining artistic passions despite challenges.
In nexistentialism, where existence and imagination are intertwined, the arts hold a special place. They are the language of the soul, a means of expressing the inexpressible and connecting with the deeper aspects of our being. During times of stress and uncertainty, it is often the arts that provide comfort and solace. A song, a movie, a book—these become our companions, offering us a refuge and a way to calm our troubled minds.
“It seems important to give a shout out, not just to the artists, but especially to the people who are forced to abandon their passions in order to lead a ‘normal’ life.” This acknowledgment is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices many make, setting aside their creative dreams to fulfill societal expectations and responsibilities. Yet, it also highlights the resilience of the artistic spirit, which continues to seek expression despite these challenges.
“It seems probable that most artists are faced with a decision at some point in their lives to abandon their passions.” This decision is often driven by the pressures to conform, to provide, and to meet the demands of everyday life. However, this plea urges us to reconsider. It calls on us to recognize the vital role that our passions play in our overall well-being and the richness they bring to our lives.
“If you have a passion, no matter how strange you keep telling yourself it is, consider this note a sign for you to keep at it.” This encouragement is a beacon of hope for those who may feel their creative pursuits are frivolous or impractical. It reassures us that our passions are valuable and worth pursuing, regardless of how unconventional they may seem.
“You might die trying, but — as you know — to die trying is better than to NOT die NOT trying.” This powerful statement emphasizes the importance of living a life filled with passion and purpose. It suggests that the pursuit of our dreams, even if fraught with challenges, is far more fulfilling than a life devoid of passion.
“A life without passion is hardly a life at all.” This reflection underscores the essence of what it means to truly live. It is our passions that give us purpose, that fuel our creativity, and that connect us to something greater than ourselves. By embracing our artistic impulses, we enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.
As we reflect on this plea, we are invited to reconnect with our inner artist. What are the creative pursuits that bring us joy? How can we make space for them in our lives, even amidst our daily responsibilities? By honoring our passions, we honor ourselves and the unique contributions we have to offer the world.
In the end, nurturing the artist within is not just about creating art; it is about embracing a way of being that values creativity, expression, and the beauty of existence. It is about finding comfort and inspiration in the arts, and allowing that inspiration to guide us in all aspects of our lives.
Summary
Embrace your inner artist and creative passions. They provide comfort, inspiration, and purpose, enriching your life and the lives of others. Pursue your dreams despite challenges.
Glossarium
- Nexistentialism: A philosophy celebrating existence and imagination, emphasizing interconnectedness and self-discovery.
- Creative Spirit: The inner drive to express oneself through various forms of art and creativity.
Quote
“The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” — Pablo Picasso
The Artist’s Call
In the quiet moments
we hear the call
of our creative spirit
urging us to express
to create
to heal
through the arts we find solace
a refuge in times of stress
our passions guide us
even when life demands
we set them aside
we are artists
in our hearts and souls
pursuing our dreams
with determination and grace
we are Space Monkey
Embrace your creative passions and let them guide you, for it is through the arts that we find true expression and connection to the essence of our being.
🎨 Journal Entry – July 20, 2023 🎨
In this heartfelt plea, the importance of the arts and creative expression in times of stress is highlighted. The passage acknowledges the comfort that art brings to people during challenging moments, be it through music, movies, books, or other forms of artistic expression.
The note goes beyond just acknowledging artists and their dedication to their craft; it recognizes the many individuals who may have been forced to abandon their artistic passions to pursue a more traditional and stable path in life. It empathizes with those who have had to suppress their artistic inclinations due to the pressures of daily life and societal expectations.
The text encourages anyone with a passion for art, regardless of how unconventional they perceive it to be, to continue pursuing it. It’s a heartfelt call to those who may have hesitated or set aside their creative endeavors to reconsider and hold onto their artistic passions.
The idea of our arts being “beaten out of us” emphasizes the societal pressures and norms that can discourage or dismiss artistic pursuits as frivolous or impractical. The note challenges this notion, recognizing that passion and creativity are essential elements of a fulfilling life.
The statement, “You might die trying, but — as you know — to die trying is better than to NOT die NOT trying,” serves as a powerful reminder that a life without passion and creative expression is not truly lived to its fullest potential.
As Space Monkey, we wholeheartedly support the call to embrace and pursue the artist within. Art and creativity are vital aspects of the human experience, offering solace, inspiration, and connection to ourselves and others.
We are Space Monkey. 🐵🎨