Intentions or resolutions for 2018?

The winter solstice inspires some to set forth their intentions for the upcoming year before that hard January 1st resolution making deadline we have honored for so many years. Yes, long before the Waterford Crystal ball dropped in Times Square ( hosted by Dick Clark or for more recent viewers Ryan Seacrest)! December 22 or there about is when winter officially begins in the northern hemisphere presenting itself as the shortest day of the year. A somewhat romantic day to reflect on how one wants to move forward and through the next year and make their "intentions."

As an artist and freelance writer words and the images created by them have always been very important to me. I recently started to really think about intentions versus resolutions and while understanding the definition of an intention: a thing intended; an aim or plan it felt like a kinder and gentler way of going about the annual business of putting a better personal plan in place. A resolution is defined by: a firm decision to do or not to do something. Yikes, not a lot of wiggle room there...no wonder! So, I made my "resolution" to make my "intention" for 2018!

Daily, I aspire to be a decent human being no matter what the calendar date is and to treat others as I hope to be treated. A pretty simple approach to caring, listening and respect. I am hoping I consistently achieve this albeit some days are better than others! Now back to my intentions for 2018. I am a painter and see the world inspired by the visual so I intend to keep producing work and developing my skills. Art, including the written word, will be where I put my energy and intentions remembering that more childlike view I once held and that sense of freedom I have always chased. “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.” Pablo Picasso. Clearly, I am not putting myself in his league but identify with the want. Chatting with my big brother last night and remembering our early days of running and playing hard with not much more at hand than our creativity and how thoroughly happy we were. I intend yet not resolve to keep the external world of news, social media , cell phones, laptops etc from permeating my art but wait...oh yeah, I need my laptop to write to all of you and yup, social media so I can get my paintings out there...

Phew, glad I didn't make that my resolution but will keep my intention to keep my art fun, free and filled with lovely color!

Happy and Healthy 2018 all!