Marry me

 

My friend’s daughter is getting married today and so I’ve painted a card for the happy couple. A blue iris symbolizes the promise of a bright future, steadfast trust, faith and wisdom. And since this is a Korean wedding, I think the color blue is a good choice because in this culture, it symbolizes a happy and bright future—one filled with calm and wise decisions.

As most of us know, marriage is not about the one day you say I do, but it’s about the journey, the day by day fidelity. In fact, it’s a lot like writing a novel. (But that’s a story for another day).

Painting this blue iris got me thinking of my own marital journey which has not always been calm. However, I will say this--even in the most tumultuous moments, I have always known deep in my heart that I made the right choice in marrying my husband twenty-one years ago. In fact, I am more certain than ever that my pledge of trust and faith and wisdom to this remarkable man was an even better choice than I could have imagined all those years ago. I am grateful and glad that I took that leap of faith.

Creative Friends--you can never fully know what the future holds in store for you. But know this--life as an artist can help guide you. Ask yourself—to what project shall I give my full devotion? Open your eyes and notice images. When you look out the window, what is the first thing you notice? How do you feel about the color blue? Why does the autumn season carry such a gorgeous sadness for you? What are the recurring symbols in your own unique life? What animals speak to you on a deeper level? What words reverberate for you as if their very consonants whisper comfort? The sound of their vowels offering peace. When have you felt most deliciously alive. And who was the person beside you?

If you find that the same person is with you during those times when you have felt the most alive--then marry him, my friends. Marry him.

Love,

Jamie