Performance Anxiety

It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not. —Author Unknown

We are our own worst enemies. By we, of course I mean me. It could be you too, but I don't want to be presumptious. What does it take to say “I am the Best” and really, truly believe it. Are there people who really believe they are?

Why must we always second guess ourselves? Is that God’s way of keeping us on the top of our game? From resting on our laurels, getting too fat, too rich, too full of oneself. Is that even possible? Is it okay to just say, well I do the best I know how and will deal with the consequences later.

Recently I told a artist who I really admire, how much I loved a particular piece of his art, to me it was beautiful and so well crafted. He told me “You know that sat on my easel for a such a long time because I really didn't like the way the shadow looked on her face”. That blew me away. This man is incredibly well-known, respected and admired...yet he admitted he was not quite pleased with his own creation...but he let it go. Boy, that is true self-confidence.

I guess that is my lesson...just let it go. Put down the self-imposed pressure, get into the groove and let it go.

As always I would love to hear your comments...you can post them. No one will judge...this is a judgement free blog. Go ahead hit that little comment button and rant, rave or just babble like me. It's sooo easy, I promise.

xo,
sher

Reinventing Yourself

There are so many times in our younger lives when we get the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. You know, a do-over. When you start college, date someone new, get married or have children. These are all do-overs, times when you really get to re-examine who you are, who you want to be, or how you want others to see you.

As we get older (say just entering your forties), there are not as many chances. We get set, get comfortable, life keeps coming at you and you need, you have to just keep on, keeping on. But what if you get the opportunity for a mid-life do-over and you can use all the experience your past has given you.

It's sort of like an old wood floor, which has so many coats of varnish that it is just yellow and dull. It needs to be stripped down to the bare wood. Then slowly, gently, the varnish is reapplied one layer at a time. Pretty soon the beauty of the wood's grain shines right on through.

So it's all good right?...no preconceived notions, no scuffs or ugly build up. Just a beautiful new floor, a whole new you waiting for a chance to shine.

Yeah, I am starting a new job on Monday. I got the do-over, I sure hope I have some shine left!

xo,
sheryl

Real Poetry

I love, love, love this poem by friend Kate Horowitz. I can close my eyes and see the entire scene playout like a movie. If you would like to read more of her work check out her blog at http://hem0philia.livejournal.com

GO SOX, YOU ROCK!

Sorry I couldn't resist!

Night Moves

Did you ever wake up in the middle of the night and while still half asleep do the rounds of your house? I did last week or so and thought that this ceremony should have a name, something like Night Moves (I know that's already taken, and for different reasons!). So, I wrote down some words on a piece of paper because I was still half asleep, but I thought it would make a good poem someday. Not that I have any idea how to wite a poem! I am hoping maybe Claire will teach me.

Cool to the touch
oh yes that's good
tuck in a foot
always on the move
sleep does not come cheap


Corny... I know, but it's my continuous nocturnal journey. Maybe you will share yours. Please feel free to do so.
xo,
Sher

The Beauty of Words

I was listening to a podcast interview of author Gregory MacGuire. He wrote this poem about Snow White to get started on his book Mirror, Mirror. I secretly (or not so) wish to be a writer (singer & painter too) but have no talent for it. Doesn't stop me from appreciating this gift in others though.

I am a girl who did no wrong
I walked this side of Jesus when I could
I kept an angel in my apron pocket
I do not think it did me any good

“Up from the Moil and Toil” by Emily McPhie

I just adore this painting by one of Greenwich Workshops newest artist (and Mom of 3) Emily McPhie.

I think the title says it all. “Up from the Moil and Toil” I thought so much about it since I first saw it. I had so much to say about it, but now I am not so sure I need to say anything. It just is...really good, so good. I am anxious to hear what all my friends think.

I can totally relate to that beautiful woman on the ladder in her grown-up clothes, daydreaming of all the things she would like to do.

As I try to write this post my 6 year old refuses to go to sleep. It's 10pm...I would really like to have this time to myself, but his lips are chapped and burning, and he can't sleep. So I will tend to him (again) and kiss him some more, tell him I love him, go to sleep my angel boy. please.

Life is just that way, it's not good or bad....it just is. Plain & simple, trying to get the balance right. Give enough love, feather the nest, make everyone cozy.

Check out Emily’s website www.emilymcphie.com and enjoy her incredible talent.

xo
Sheryl