Getting Dirty

I've been sick since Sunday: run down, fever, stuffy, achy, and a constant headache. Pretty picture, right? I woke myself up moaning for the past two nights. Today I decided it was time to fight it; mind over matter, literally. I went to make pottery after work. Nothing to heal the heart, mind, and body better than indulging in a little mud madness. The concept of control in a time of chaos of my physical state, my mind, and my work life, inspired me. I believed I could make two big bowls. And I did.

I broke through my plateau. I've been frustrated lately in art class. This disturbs me because it is my place of escape and yet has been another stress. I kept feeling like I was doing the right things yet not reaching results; that I couldn't find the time I so needed to practice. Today, my perspective changed. I quit blaming the clay and my schedule and suddenly understood it was me that was at fault: my hands, my mind. After all, what more was the shape of the clay than an extension of myself? I visualized the shapes I was aiming to achieve and suddenly, I produced.

I forget about being sick, being overworked, being single and just felt the thrill of accomplishment. What a sweet relief. Now I will scrape the three inches of clay out of my hair and off my glasses and sleep easy knowing that tomorrow is a new day with plenty of opportunities for perspective and for fun. Good life lesson here: focus on what I can accomplish and realize that my biggest obstacle is often myself.

Knowing that, I hope to improve.