"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."
- Anais Nin
Coming to the studio isn't just about painting. Because we paint in community, we are given the unique opportunity to move in a deeper way as we're gently nudged and inspired by the brave souls painting next to us. Lama Surya Das speaks of "sangha" as "community, common embrace, communion; it's a sanctuary, a safe place to let down our guard." (From his book Awakening to the Sacred: Creating a Personal Spiritual Life.)
There is something reassuring about others showing up for themselves and creating along side us. Sometimes we arrive at the page feeling vulnerable. Simply by moving into that vulnerability with openness and color can urge another to explore a similar place in themselves. We're reminded of Marianne Williamson's quote from her book A Return to Love: "...As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
There are many opportunities to paint in sacred community this month. We hope you'll join us!
Sending you much love,
Jen and Steph
