18 Comments
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Kelsey Ó Ciardha's avatar

It really is so hard. I think in times like this, using your voice and making art are acts of defiance, and of understanding. I find a lot of comfort in others’ expressions — mostly as proof that as a whole, we haven’t really lost our way.

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

For sure! I'm finding my way through art. Some days, my brain feels too beat down for my own, but engaging with creative work that inspires me helps a lot.

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Helen Hancocks's avatar

Well that’s a thing of beauty. ❤️❤️❤️

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

I know, right? So kind and inspiring

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Helen Hancocks's avatar

A lovely thing to send, a marker and a nudge forward. Sending you love and creative vibes. ❤️

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

Likewise, Helen

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Miebi's avatar

This is beautiful. ❤️

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

❤️

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Erica Lee Schlaikjer 🍉 史光芬's avatar

Love the concept of a spiritual pantry 🍯

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

Me too ❤️

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Cathy Raingarden's avatar

That's a beautifully written card. I'm in the US and continue to sketch at weekly protests, so far I've sketched at 20. Although times are depressing, I feel like we cannot let our joy be stolen. Drawing brings me joy and I'm drawing as much as I possibly can right now.

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

That's amazing, Cathy! I agree! It's a fight to find joy right now, but you're right, we cannot let it be stolen!

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Paula Cristobal's avatar

We need to create… together. I long for sharing.

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

Absolutely!!

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Jeremy Ray Ross's avatar

Beautiful letter!

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

It was such a kind gift of generosity.

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Sarah Miller's avatar

I will never stop believing creativity is an antidote to despair. But I do think that *accessing* creativity in dark times is very difficult — and I share your predicament right now.

I agree wholeheartedly with Claudia’s encouragement — what you do here is special, even exceptional, and I hope you keep doing it.

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Taylor Sterling's avatar

Thanks, Sarah! I feel the same way about you! (I just sent you an email.) I think my belief is wavering more for my own practice, not for others. I know it's essential! Sometimes my dedication to my creativity causes me more stress and anguish. The news and Summer Mom Mode are not conducive to my creativity. I need to be better at protecting my time for my art and also limiting my exposure to horrific news— that would help. I also think these apps pressure us to constantly produce, but I need a lot of time for thinking! This job is a lonely one sometimes, which is why I stay on Substack. I'm grateful for this community —and for you!

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