Finding Meaning In The Journey

 

From the vibrant chaos of a mural taking shape to the quiet focus of a brushstroke on a canvas, creativity has been the unwavering thread woven through the tapestry of my life. Since childhood, drawing and painting have been more than just a hobby; they've been a language, a powerful means of expression, and a special gift. This passion has paved the way for me to become a visual artist for over a decade, leading me to participate in memorable and meaningful art shows and exciting mural projects, inspiring countless workshops, and even the rewarding experience of building an art school. Through these, my true fulfillment came from contributing to something larger than myself.

But before I took the journey of creative altruism, I was on the path of care and empathy. As a licensed nurse, I'm keen on health and wellness. Years of practice have only drawn me more to the human experience, and this curiosity led me to level up my education and pursue a master's degree in clinical psychology. This pursuit wasn't a departure from my art but rather a deepening of my understanding of its power. Bridging art and psychology only fueled my desire to serve and reach more people.

In essence, my life was busy and brimming with purpose and inspiration.

Recently, however, things began to shift. Despite being a health ally and a health advocate, getting sick is still inevitable. My body's defenses started to falter. Following a series of lab tests, I was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune diseases. My once boundless energy now comes with limitations. The freedom to engage in certain activities has now become more constrained.

This new reality has, understandably, brought its challenges. There are days filled with frustration and moments of feeling sidelined. There is an undeniable need to adapt and redefine what a "purposeful life" looks like. Gratefully, amidst these changes, the core of who I am remains. The creative spirit that has been my lifelong companion hasn't dimmed; it feels more vital than ever. It's my constant source of reassurance and comfort.

Dealing with chronic illness firsthand has significantly enhanced my insight into art's capacity to heal. The things I learned in class feel profoundly relevant, not just for others, but for my journey of healing and coping. While the large-scale murals might need to take a backseat for now, the intimacy of a sketchbook, the honesty of writing, the mindful act of painting, and the exploration of digital art remain open avenues. Some things need to evolve, and find new ways and platforms that can still reach others. 

I know this isn't the life I envisioned, but this is the life I'm given. And within this new landscape, I am determined to find new ways to blend my passions for art and health. The canvas may look different now, and the colors may be applied with a different rhythm, but the creativity lives on. 

My life is still an unfolding story, a continuous exploration of how to navigate limitations with creativity and how to find purpose even when the path ahead seems blurry. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit, fueled by passion and a desire for meaning, can always find a way to create. For all who face similar challenges, may all the small things we do matter as we navigate through limitations and discomforts. May this be a source of motivation and encouragement as well for all of us.