"Mastering yourself is true power." (Laozi)
Art is a form of power. It brings to light situations, advocates change, preserves a moment in time, communicates. Great art makes us think.
An individual who has artfully created an authentic self...is powerful.
Many fear their own power. Many shrink, hide... don't look at me. Don't see me.
This is not the time to be shy about our gifts. When we go silent, or hide, our gifts become dormant. The world loses.
The art of you...lost.
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition." (Steve Jobs)
Heart and intuition creates art. Heart and intuition creates authenticity. Heart and intuition creates a mensch. (good word mensch...It means a decent responsible person with admirable characteristics)
In this world of mediocrity, be fierce, self-loyal and passionately selfish in order to create your own self. Be militant (vigorously active).
Don't copy. Don't mimic. No one knows how you should be. Their plans, their beliefs on how the world is should only be for themselves. The more you follow someone else's "lead", the more of you are lost.
Be brave. Be selfish*. Dominate your own self. Show up at the table...a piece of original art.
(*more on selfish later. The concept of being selfish disturbs many people. You first before others. This is how it should be. Airlines have it correct - "Please place the bag over your own mouth and nose before assisting children...")
