Do you know you are brave and beautiful? I don’t usually begin posts that way, but you spoke your fears out loud–you who are made to create–and I am overwhelmed with your confessions. They are my confessions, too.
Fear of failure, of rejection, of working hard and risking vulnerable just to say what someone else already said better. We are a scared bunch, aren’t we? Longing to be seen but feeling safe when we’re invisible? Waiting for permission to create for real because what if? and what about? and what will they think?
I hope you are diving into the deep, sweet place of authentic this week. And I don’t mean climb into your quiet cave and wait for the Muse. No, I hope you are swimming around in the living; seeing the art in your husband’s eyes, delighting in the way her freckles are sprinkled just about her nose, feeling the warm sun on your back even in the bitter cold. It’s all art. And when we see it, we can better make it.
Wake up and dream to life those things that seem far off. Live the art you dream about. Embrace the ones you have. And then? Sit down and get to work. Because no truth is new truth, friend, it all belongs to God. Your voice is just one, and that makes it unique. You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.
You need to live the art, and then you need to keep on making it. For you. And for us. Will you?
Thanks for the push! Doing a lot of dreaming this week! It is so amazing I feel most alive when dreaming out loud…it is simple evidence that God delights in our dreams! Have a great day!
Oh my, Emily. In the hush of this morning, I can hear your words fall into my depths, words I so desperately need this week. Thank you.
Beth´s last [type] ..Finding Theology in the Grocery Store
You’re welcome Beth. So glad you’re here.
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
Yes, I will! Thank you for your inspiring words.
Maryea {happy healthy mama}´s last [type] ..Polenta Pizza
“You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.” ~I so love this, Emily! This reminds me of something I heard Lisa TerKeurst say before…one person can’t reach everyone so many voices are needed.
You are beautiful, Emily, just beautiful!
Hey, I just saw that Lisa was talkin’ good about you at her place today!
she’s so dear for that!
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
Cool pics Emily. Thanks for encouraging me to come out of my little shell and be ME.
Jessica @ These Are The Days´s last [type] ..this housewife is
thank you for the push! i’m dreaming big right now as i work towards building my business.
jenifriend´s last [type] ..28
Seems God is speaking to me about dreams and doing things I CAN do and leaving the rest for Him. Thank you for the reminder and putting it in a way that speaks to us.
I love your arty blog posts. Keep it coming.
Susie Davis´s last [type] ..I Want a Baby
Thanks Susie! Can’t wait to meet you next week!!
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
I had to laugh when you called me out for hiding in my cave and waiting for the Muse. HOW DID YOU KNOW?!!?!?!
Have resolved to make myself do it: make myself connect, make myself write. Have resolved, I mean, to be true to the Me I know myself to be. Not a New Year’s resolution, not even a ‘new month’ resolution. Just…. a Be Me resolution. And, miraculously, my favorite blog peeps are writing stuff like this, seemingly TO ME, that encourage me. Thanks!
Kirsten´s last [type] ..Hot Cocoa for Water
what a great, word, Kirsten!
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
Emily…yesterday was my first out-loud expression of my art with a guest post on (in)courage. It was scary, yet so incredibly freeing. As I waited for what I wrote to be posted, I got anxious and yet I couldn’t go back. I knew it was coming. And so I prayed that others would be touched through my art – through the invitation I’ve been given to explore this gift of writing. That was my heart cry – Lord, use me, not for me to be glorified, but for you to bring wholeness, healing, freedom, peace, love and grace to broken and very real hearts. And so, the day arrived and I suddenly felt *alive*. The comments and stats on the number of viewers to my blog gave me a confidence that I am a real person, I am valued, I am noticed. Those are selfish affirmations, but God knew I would appreciate them. And then, the praying began…the praying for the answers to my own prayer that others would be touched, and the hearts that were face-to-face with His through the writing He gave me in *my story*. And today…the day after…all I can think about is “keep on”. I have to keep on writing. Keep on making it. Keep on taking a risk and living boldly – trusting Him and seeking Him with my life. Living an authentic life of truth and in that living freely me. God is using you, girl. Keep on!
Amy´s last [type] ..For the Good Girl- Grace for Me as it turns out
You did a great job over there, Amy. I’m so glad it was a freeing step for you!
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
Hey, thanks Emily. Kind of you. And yes, it was a *freeing step*…now to keep on…
Amy´s last [type] ..For the Good Girl- Grace for Me as it turns out
Your last few posts have reached a hidden place inside of me. It holds many dreams but is guarded fiercely by my insecurities.
But your posts are getting through that wall.
Thank you
Starla, this comment has me all teary-eyed happy. Thank you.
hey thanks for being the first to comment on the shower! isn’t it goregous?! (if i do say so myself….lol)
melissa´s last [type] ..A Dress All Your Own
Emily – it is amazing the way your posts touch the very spot in my heart the Father is speaking to. Yesterday, I sat on the piano bench talking about writing songs with my piano teacher. We talked about the way we think that it has all already been said, and said so well. “But,” she said, ” that doesn’t matter. You are doing it for Him. There really isn’t anything new. If He is the only one to ever hear it, that’s okay too. He has given you a gift and you must use it.”
This post reinforces that truth. Thank you.
Linda´s last [type] ..Harrison
Yes! I have to remind myself of that every time I sit to write.
This is such a great encouraging post. So today, Wednesday my heart and mind are intentionally set to see the art, live the art and share the art around me. For that is what He would want us to do! Thank you Emily, keep sharing your art…writing, it is beautiful! On Purpose,Nichole
You start out with the contradiction that is so many of us – and me. “Longing to be seen but feeling safe when we’re invisible”. Amen.
And so true Emily, there is nothing new under the sun. Our writing, my writing is “just to say what someone else already said better”. There are what? 5 plots out of which spring every other plot ever written?
I do know this. It’s joy reading all the different blogs, it highlights the myriad of facets on the same exact diamond. After all, the sparkle of a diamond only happens when it’s turned and light hits it from different directions and sources.
Thank you for this today Emily, And God Bless and Keep you and yours.
Dreaming and thinking a lot this week. Pushing forward. Actually talking to people in person about what I am trying to accomplish on my blog. It is hard, but it is worth it!
Bernice
Living the Balanced Life´s last [type] ..Assess your life for stress
Emily-
As a child, I always wanted to be an artist, but I never allowed myself the freedom to pursue it. I chose other things that were somewhat artsy, but had a more real income potential. I have not used those things either. I struggled with seeing value in my art. I am also just now beginning to see my writing as art. I have loved this series. Thank you for such honest posts that awaken your readers. I look forward to seeing your beautiful pictures too! I so wish I could hear you speak at Relevant…
Blessings to you.
Emily´s last [type] ..Fresh Brewed
Emily! I love what you said: ” You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.” May I please quote you? I think all writers need to hear this!
Jerri´s last [type] ..Fridays Fave Five 121
Thank you for your great post! I’ve always been on the artsy side. Through all the stages of my life, God has put me in places to use what he has given to me. I’ve been faux finishing for a few years, but am realizing I physically am unable to do on a regular basis anymore. Therefore, I’m thinking about starting a photography business. Which is really ironic as I wanted to be a sports photographer when I was in high school, but everybody told me you couldn’t make good money. Unfortunately, I listened. Now I just have to pray and push past self-doubt to make the dream happen.
Again, thank you for reminding us all!
Joanne
I am taking the Soul Restoration seminar thru the Brave Girls Club, and I definitely hope to come out the other side, brave, bold and beautiful.
i am astounded. (i could stop here as i find myself without words…)
He IS doing more than we can even imagine…that word “authentic”…camped out on that one this weekend with my small group as we celebrated awakening and processed the pain that comes along with it. praying with you that His glory will be made known as we — you there, me here, and everyone everywhere who is hearing this Voice of Truth — go out in our “authentic selves” proclaiming HIM!
adornedlife´s last [type] ..the two words
Thank you! Like you said, I may not be the first one to say it, but I am unique, so I wanted to add my thanks here to those who have already said it so well. I wish I could have this series in a book on my coffee table to reflect on when I need a reminder!
Emily Joyce´s last [type] ..DaySpring Giveaway!
I want to stand up and applaud you and all of the chatting girls! I feel so inspired, empowered and affirmed as I read your words and as I perused others’ fears and nodded “yes” again and again.
I loved your post about when the art has to wait because that’s sort of where I am and well, it’s hard to wait. I guess in a way I’m an “Artist in Residence,” living in the muck and mess and beauty of the everyday and wishing I could grab hold of the time to make meaning of it all, which is the art part. {It’s like you said in another post, every yes is a no. But sometimes it’s hard to say no to the art when it’s feels as if you may burst.} : )
Scooper´s last [type] ..Noise
Me too, Scooper! Isn’t this group of women crazy wonderful? And I love your “artist in residence” reference. How perfect.
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
It’s like stepping into a cool oasis in here. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Nikole Hahn´s last [type] ..Freedom in Silence
I never considered myself a writer. In fact I never considered myself artistic at all. Even now I tell people don’t come to me if you are looking for something creative, I’m not the creative one. But reading your series I’ve realized maybe I am an artist. God gave me a story share and a message to tell. As I prepare for each Marriage Monday I am scared of what people may think, of offending someone or just not doing a good job. Each time I ask God to give me His words and the peace to know I am following Him. Thank you for sharing your heart. – Mary
Mary´s last [type] ..Praying for our Husbands – As Spiritual Leader
“But reading your series I’ve realized maybe I am an artist.” Mary, that is like music to my ears today! I’m so glad to have you here.
Emily´s last [type] ..wake up and dream
“You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.”
What an encouragement, Emily. Thank you!
(I am doing my first elementary school “Meet the Illustrator” visit next Wednesday. I am terrified, but I can’t tell you how much your recent words have influenced what I’m going to talk about with these 3rd and 4th graders! Aside from the ins and outs of children’s book art, I’m going to chat a lot about the fear that lives in each of us. I think I’m going to use those big cardboard bricks and have the kids built a wall on stage. I’m going to talk about our dreams that live on the other side of that wall of fear and doubt…and how being an artist means poking holes in that wall day-by-day, sketch-by-sketch. The art of perseverance. Anyway – thanks again for the daily inspiration! Really.)
shelley.´s last [type] ..a story of faithfulness- for my grandpa
You have a gift, girlfriend! I am going to get my create on tonight! After reading your last few posts, i already feel less afraid! Let’s do coffee soon!
So encouraging, thank you! Makes me want to “dream to life those things that seem far off”. Love that.
Linda´s last [type] ..The Problem With Perfect
Lovely. Lovely… I sort of wish you could record a bouquet of beautiful things and whisper them too me in the morning… I love your posts… i always just sort of exhale with happiness…
Are you aware of how inspiring you are? I hope so. I always take notice of ladies who encourage and inspire others to step off the ledge and LIVE. So often us gals are intimidated by the potential success of others. If we have some, we’d rather just hold on to it and not pass it around, thank you very much. The truth is – there’s room enough for every success. There’s enough colors on the wheel for all of us. You said it (as always!) so very well, “You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.” This statement is heart-opening to me. It’s so, so true.
Your generous and encouraging heart blesses us, Emily.
Flower Patch Farmgirl´s last [type] ..My Toes are Cold
your gentle inspiring reminders are a blessing to all of us.
thank you so much. hopefully you realize how much this little series on encouraging art is helping.
xoxo
It is so hard though. To get out of the mindset that has kept me from doing what I long to do. I decided, yesterday, that I am going to start to organize what it is that I want to do-capture-create in a list. Because I think I talk myself out of it so many times that I begin to forget those longings. So maybe if I publish them on my blog, it’ll be a start to accomplishing them.
love the bit of my day where I can come to read your thoughts
I don’t know how God does it, but every time I take the time to visit here, He speaks. Thank you for being open to His words and His ways, sweet Emily.
I hope you don’t mind, but I linked to you and quoted you in my post today. I wanted others to know about you!
Blessings and love,
Linsey
LLH Designs´s last [type] ..What Day Is It Really
Words I need to here, over and over and over. . .
Holly´s last [type] ..At The Waters Edge
“You may not be the first one to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.”
I needed to hear that. Thank you.
Sandy
Sandy Cooper´s last [type] ..Made to Crave Winner
Thank you for your encouraging words. I had a setback earlier this week, and let myself down in some areas, but I’m ready to work harder and put my best self forward from now on. ^_^
Henway´s last [type] ..Matchcom Group
I’m visiting via Lysa’s blog and know GOD led me here; He spoke so clearly thru your words! Your closing lines about not being the first to say, but my saying it may be the first time another hears – wow! Thank you for being a vessel that God obviously used tonight!! Blessings, Jill
Jill´s last [type] ..A Necessary Question
“Your voice is just one, and that makes it unique. You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.” Now that is beautiful!!
“I may not be the first to say it, but my saying it may be the first time they hear.” wow, I never saw it that way. You speak and write in way that makes me “hear.” I love that!!
Oh you…
You and your obedience.
You…the voice of God to me.
Thank you.
I’m off to work;-)
You certainly hit the nail on MY head…I read the other suggested posts. Thank you for being an answer to a prayer.
I have to agree with what so many others here have already said. These words were just beautiful:
“Because no truth is new truth, friend, it all belongs to God. Your voice is just one, and that makes it unique. You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.”
I think I’ll print that out and read it again and again. (Along with the Timothy verse.)
I’m thankful God gave me passion to share and write, and also so thankful for your desire to create and inspire.
Caroline´s last [type] ..Book Review – Unto the Hills by Billy Graham
I really like the tone of this post. From the outset I felt peace. I too loved the words at the end that our voice is unique and we must speak. God gave us all a pen to write the story with. It would be an injustice to the creator not to write and take our place in the telling of the story. Thank you for this post.
David Willis´s last [type] ..Pasta Ponza and Fried Jalapenos
Yes, I will…..live the art and then keep on making it. I do see art in my husband’s eyes and in the little girls that swirl and twirl and skip around inside our home. I have only just begun, but it’s been a beautiful start.
Amanda asweetliferocks´s last [type] ..Treasure
You are gonna call out all us chickens,eh? Honest, between spilling my guts for everybody on the ‘net, and then reading your sister’s post about “just DO it,what can happen? It might work!” and now you call us out!
you two are a tag team. 
I am getting closer…i was checking out some things today that would get me in gear, ready, baby steps. I am getting braver. But I really should just”cluck”. (sigh) it’s the committing,not the doing. Now that’s the only thing that scares me. But it’s still making me cluck. I’m closin’ on it. I’ll be there soon. Thank you dear one…-s-
I have just read your last four posts about creativity and art. At the beginning of last year I opened up my heart to the possibility of being a little creative again after years of heartache and stress where it was ‘too hard’. It was one of the first things I gave up when life got unbearably hard.
I learned a few years ago that if I prayed ‘ Lord what should I do today?’ and nothing out of the ordinary came to mind..then I did what I knew I should do and when I was to do something different He would tell me…quicken my spirit..so to speak.
With my sewing it is the same…a process. I look at what I have on hand and allow myself to imagine…to dream what I most want to sew…look time and time again at the fabrics I own and little by little I get excited by a colour combination or a pattern idea or am inspired by what someone says. Then I continue to change my mind, rearrange and end up often with something I could never have imagined…and I know is better. I am learning to love this process and wait eagerly while it takes its time in me and have learned not to hurry it because each edit is better and I learn to do better.
Some of the process is just hard work…but when it is repetitive or hard to do or won’t go the way I imagine…my character is being moulded creatively by my God.
Naturally Carol´s last [type] ..Strawberry Fields
Ah, just the encouraging words I needed to hear today! I will indeed be “swimming with the living” so that I can get down to work. Thank you for lifting me up.
Heidi M´s last [type] ..Faith
I am going to read this later when I have a moment, but I had to say that the photos are amazing. Love how you tiled them here. My goal…is to learn how to do this! Photoshop will not be the death of me. {that is what I keep telling myself anyway}.
stacey´s last [type] ..Winter Home – Time to Begin Again To Do List
I think you know how often your words resonate with me. But these? These are special, even for you:
“You may not be the first to say it, but your saying it may be the first time we hear.”
Oh, my. Oh, oh, oh, my.
Now that I can breathe again, I’m leaving you this comment. And I’m writing this sentence down. You may not have been the first one to say it, but your saying it was the first time I heard it. Really heard it.
Thank you.
Richella´s last [type] ..Organization 101
*Sigh.* You are such a stinkin’ good writer. Yep. I just said stinkin’ good.
Kendra´s last [type] ..Reclaiming Peace
Thanks Emily! For me, this is the best Chatting at the Sky post I’ve read. Love it!
Mrs.B´s last [type] ..1-11-11
My post today talks about my struggle with this. I have been plagued by the idea that what I have to say is being said by so many others, so much better. Thank you for being a confirmation of what God is telling me, that its uniqueness comes from the fact that it’s from me. I’m still wrestling with it…
Melissa Brotherton´s last [type] ..who do you think you are!
Emily, I saw your link on Lysa’s blog post today (maybe she posted it earlier this week, but I’m a bit behind)
I look at everything Lysa recommends because I think she is an amazing Jesus girl and I need more Jesus girls in my life!
I LOVE your post today! You paint amazing pictures with words (and I love your pics too)! Thank you so much for encouraging me to “swim around in the living”!
Truly inspirational words. And I don’t mean in just a warm, fuzzy way, but a way that makes me want to create, that makes me grateful that I do create, and that gives me courage to continue.
Life is an art. Living the way you want life to be is our masterpiece. Being our own artist, we have to do our best to hone the best sculpture out of ourselves.
Maria Pavel´s last [type] ..Accelerated CNA Certification