It’s those subtle lies that slip into the back of our minds, disguising themselves as thoughts, as small warnings we should heed to keep our hearts, our truest identities safe. Though they seem insignificant at first, they slowly build a case that you are just a poser.

That doing this creative thing, taking that relational risk, leading this meeting, mothering this tiny soul… someone messed up by giving you that authority. Because if people really knew your struggles and how unqualified you really are…

I’ve battled imposter syndrome most of my life, waiting for some kind of accomplishment or sign that I really belong here, as a creative.  

Here’s what I’m discovering:  So many times we stop short of creative expression because we fear it will not be good enough. But the value of your creativity does not come from someone else calling it beautiful, inspiring, or excellent. The real value of creativity is how it makes you feel, what you discover in the process, and more importantly who you discover. 

Creativity is a direct line to your inner knowing, and I believe, to the Divine. There is something deeply spiritual about creating just for the beauty of it, without judgement.

In the darkest moments of my life, art and beauty have kept me breathing. Flowers in a cold, winter window speak life to achy places. Fresh baked loaves of bread remind me I am nourished and capable of nurturing even in grief. Just for fun mood boards lift me out of a funk, proving I am more than just one moment, one feeling. In the depths of healing, beauty and creativity remind us what we are healing for.

Whatever that creative thing is for you, don’t let anyone call it frivolous. Keep painting, keep crafting, keep sewing, keep writing, keep doing your creative work. You have nothing to prove here, love.

light + love, Bethany

Photography by @amymelissaphoto