I usually don’t write a whole lot about what I feel, like, personally, on my blog. However, I will make an exception today.
I moved to Arkansas about a year and a half ago. And, as luck would have it, Arkansas turned out to be exactly what I expected it to be. The “artist” community consisted of those who can make fun Razorback Gear for the loyal University of Arkansas sports fans. Sure, there are others out there who are creative and, I am sure, have a lot more to offer than the stereotype I just described. But, I have not encountered those people since arriving in good old Arkansas.
But, what is my point?
I realize now how important it is to surround yourself with people who are similar to you… those who are creative, those who inspire you to do more and be more. People who can push you and laugh with you. People who don’t look at you like you are crazy when you want to paint your walls black, or cover an arm chair with bright blue velvet. People who get your quirks.
I took those people for granted when I lived in Springfield, Mo. There is a certain sense of comradery felt among those whose goals in life include finding ways to make the world a bit prettier (and perhaps a bit more offbeat). I miss drinking massive amounts of coffee while rambling about the latest trends in design. I miss talking about growth and fears and religion and dreams for the future while sipping homemade lemonade on a porch swing on Elm Street.
It’s funny, the smaller, seemingly less important things that I have experienced in my life are what have now shaped me into the person I am today.
However, I am so grateful for those friendships that I made. I feel a certain amount of joy in knowing that no matter where I go, I am still connected to people creatively.
People move on. I got married, had a lovely daughter. Relocated. It is raining today, so I am feeling a bit melancholy.
Arkansas, you had better be worth it. Show me what you are made of.
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