I am not a particularly superstitious person. In these turbulent times, however, it is often pleasant to see something(s) as a sign of good things to come… My last travel for teaching was littered with such signs – at least I choose to see it that way – and I thought it might be nice to share them with you.
On the morning that we headed out, and after a summer loaded with more dragonflies than I recall ever seeing, I looked up to see a very large and rather impressive specimen shimmering on the aerial of the truck. Dragonflies symbolize transformation, new beginnings, and lightness of being. What better reminder to be grateful for the journey than to have such a harbinger hitching a ride for the next phase of my own? This seemed a rather fortuitous sign indeed, as this was to be my first offering at a new venue (The Yadkin Valley Fiber Center) – and both the host and myself have great hopes that my efforts will result in the regular programming of book arts on their course schedule.
Upon arriving at our camping location, and following a brief visit to Slightly Askew Winery (that may well have been a sign of its own for this wine lover), we were greeted with skies that looked like rain was imminent. In spite of rolling thunder and a brief sprinkling, we were fortunate that we did not have to set up the camper in the rain (!) Instead, we were gifted with a most lovely rainbow arcing over the distant hills and disappearing into the clouds. Rainbows serve as symbols of peace and serenity, as well as being stunning visual reminders to confront and embrace our own potential for growth, beauty, and wisdom.
While the rose is a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and balance this last image is not so much a sign as a reminder to me. While strolling down the Main Street thoroughfare on Sunday afternoon, upon seeing this perfect rose bud I was immediately reminded of the quotation from Anais Nin: “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” In other words: nothing ventured, nothing gained -- OR: You’ll never know ‘til you try! If I have learned anything in the past three and half years it is that you’ll never get ANYwhere standing still.
So… What are YOU waiting for? Signs are favorable that if you make the leap, join us in October, and become part of our creative community you will have a whole new view of what it means to follow your muse. Stop standing still! Step into the circle. You’ve nothing to lose, and worlds of insight, fellowship, and creativity to gain. It’s not too late – register today! We’ll be waiting for you beneath the trees…
Until next time,
- PLA
