We all have a story to tell, it doesn't matter who you are or what experience you have, your story is important and it needs to be told.
Mum shares her memories as a child
As a mixed media artist, I find that I use my journals a lot to tell aspects of my story or to express how I may be feeling at a particular moment. My images, paintings and journal entries don't always have to have words. I keep a journal just for writing as well, and first thing in the morning I spend time just writing, 3 pages or more of words whenever I can, allowing them to flow out, without censoring or hindering.
When I create a character or painting I don't start out always knowing what I want to paint, and use their gaze, smile and expression to tell the stories of pain, joy, fear and love.
I guess I also use this blog as a way to tell my story and share my journey, hoping that if only one person finds comfort or encouragement then its worth it. I also share my story as a means of reflection. When I can't find the words to express how I feel, telling it in a story form can make it easier, and it is all part of the overall process.
Sharing your story reminds you of who you are. We can often be buried under all the labels, wife, mother carer, and you can forget just who you were because that person hasn't been visible for so very long, lost in a sea of just getting by.
For now, get yourself a note book or journal and start writing and or drawing about how you are feeling, lessons learnt or advice for someone who might just be just stepping into your shoes. Share your story with someone else you could be the inspiration that they have been praying for.
You can also click on the 'Celebrating life' image to be taken to the rest of the posts from the Journey of a Carer.
