Q: I got married right out of college. Four years later, I’ve got two needy toddlers and an art degree that apparently means nothing. Meanwhile, my still-single sorority sisters have thriving careers in graphic design and constantly post about their work and exotic travels. I love my kids, but I have to confess that I’m jealous and discouraged. How do I let go of those artistic dreams I once had?
Jim: I appreciate your honesty – and I’d like to respond with an illustration you might not have considered. I’m sure you were taught, and likely believe yourself, that art matters a great deal, regardless of whether it generates “commercial success.” I’m convinced that art matters because it flows directly out of our humanity. We were created to create.
With that in mind, I’d suggest that you’re a creative artist of the highest degree “even” as a homemaker. You’re nurturing children and shaping an environment where they can thrive and flourish. Sure, your working medium may not be paint, or clay, or an iPad. Instead, you’re sculpting character every day in impressionable young human lives.
