Forgive the blurry pictures. They were taken on the run
with my cell phone in poor light. But this is me with
Sofia Rukoiatkina at the Idea Arts and Crafts
fair at Super Wonder Gallery a week ago. Since then
things have been superbusy. Sofia was an amazing help
to me at the show, and a support for my course on Creativity
at U. of T. in November. Thank you Sofia.
family and friends a part of me is thinking about
who I wish I could see, could toast with a glass of
champagne, or sit down and have a coffee and a
cookie with and share a joke, or happy anecdote.
To all my friends and family who cannot be in
Toronto this year for the holidays, please know
that I love you and you are in my heart.
I learned the strong power of love when I held
my mother's hand as she lay dying. It was
not about regret, although of course I wish I
could have spent more time with her. My sadness
was about knowing I couldn't see her, hug her
and speak with her again.
After she died I knew I had to live to the fullest,
not for her, but because she would want me to.
And I understood in the most intense way
possible that however many years I had left on
the planet, they would not be enough to give
out enough love to the people I care about,
and to the world.
I don't mean to overpower people with the
XOXOXOXOXO. I just mean to say I know
without question that however many X's and
O's I can put at the end of a note they will never
convey how important the concept of being
loving and kind is to me.
One of the delightful surprises of the Idea Show
was the Healer Gaspar. Until I spoke with him I
wondered what he was up to. But he had a wonderful,
kind and loving way about him, and during the
show healed at least five people I knew of of
severe migraines and definitely helped people's moods!
He even let us take amusing pictures with the pryamid shape
on top of his booth. He was a super pleasure to meet.
All of Gaspar's efforts were directed at helping
people be happier. And he was very good at
solving problems for the people he talked to.
Many friends at this time of year are sharing
ideas about beliefs and ceremonies they
enjoy. But the common thread in everyone's
background is the importance of love and kindness.
Thank you for yours in 2015, and thank you
to all my friends and family for a magnificent
year.
Sofia, the skeptic tries out the triangle and maybe some
meditation. She really enjoyed the weekend --
so much fun.
XOXOXOXOXO Sofia, and to all of my friends and family everywhere.
Happy, Happy NewYear.
8 comments:
Barbara, what a wonderful post! the pictures are great to see if a little blurry, your display looks beautiful at the idea show. I would like to have met that healer Gaspar, so nice to be in the company of positive energy. Your post on how important love is in your life is very moving, your sincerity comes through as you talk about holding your mothers hand. Love really is all that matters. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year ...and much love always
Hi Sally,
So wish we could get together soon. Such a whirlwind of a year. It seems we were just wishing each other Happy New Year a day ago. But looking back I am so delighted with what Steven and I managed to accomplish in 2015, when one of us (me) had two wrecked knees. Much, much better now, but stairs are still a challenge. But that didn't stop us, although I sometimes think Steven deserves a sainthood. ;-)
Much Love to you,
and we will get together soon!
XOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
Lovely! Thank you for sharing your art and your stories! I like your XOs, they are not "overkill" by any means.
xoxoxo
:)
V
Hi Verna,
Thank you so much. I love reading your blog, and am always dazzled at all you do.
Glad you don't mind my X's and O's. It feels really good to add them.
Wishing you a super 2016. Boy did the last one go fast. But sitting here I can
do a flip book flash of your work in my brain, and wow, wow, wow. So good. So incredibly good, and you've got me looking at things differently -- like highrises! :-)
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
Love this post, sorry we are So far apart. But let's be happy.
xoxoxoxo
I liked reading the reason behind the Xs and Os and I think you've learned something some never do.
Hi Miranda,
Me too. There are days when it feels very far apart indeed.
I think that's when we need to talk to one another.
Let's do that soon!
XOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
Hi Kim,
Thank you. I think anyone who loves a parent
and loses them probably learns big lessons about
love, and how precious life and the people we
love are.
One thing I know for sure. I am so glad you
are my friend, and I love, love, love your
work.
XOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
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