The first time I saw the above painting by Richard Schem, Times Square in New York City came to mind. If you’ve ever stood at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue at night, you too may have been overwhelmed by the cacophony of color produced by thousands of neon lights.
But Richard’s painting is titled, “See the World.” That provides a very different perspective. Now I see the colors of the sea, the brilliant hues of silken saris from India, the verdant hillsides of Ireland, the rich crimson of Chinese lacquer, the terracotta and ochre tones of the Grand Canyon.
In one painting, he’s captured the glory of color that pervades much of our world.
Of course, Richard Schem isn’t the only artist who sees the world with fresh perspective and provides a delicious moment of discovery for those who pause long enough to experience a work of art, not just view it.
I wonder what would happen if we became artists of our days—pausing long enough to find fresh perspective now and then? Might we make a delicious discovery or two? Might our days explode with colorful moments, like Richard Schem’s canvas?
If that sounds enticing, the next question would be: How do we become artists of the everyday? I’m thinking the following strategies might provide a good place to start.
1. Paint the day with positivity.
Why let the drab colors of disappointment, difficulty, and frustration shroud the day when we can choose the cheerful hues of optimism, opportunity, and blessing?
“A joyful heart makes a face cheerful.”
–Proverbs 15:13a
Just this morning (It’s Monday as I begin to draft), Steve and I had to go to the hospital for his weekly blood draw. Unfortunately, Mother Nature played an April Fool’s joke during the night: the SUV was covered in frost. Not being quite tall enough for the job, I attacked the ice on the windshield with some difficulty, and was soon huffing and puffing.**
Well, at least this is good exercise, I thought. And listen to the birds, happily trilling and chirping, not the least bit deterred by the chill this morning. My frustration began to subside.
2. Weave gratitude from morning till night.
(This photo taken last September)
Recent threads in my gratitude tapestry include: hot coffee in a thermal mug, sunshine streaming in the windows, a trio of deer feasting on the backyard hillside, candle-lighting time each evening, and a delightful book intertwining mystery and humor.
God’s goodness comes in many colors and textures.
3. Mold moments into sanctuaries of joyful worship.
Instead of just waiting for joy to find us, we can create it. Here are a few possibilities:
- Celebrate the prize of a smile from each person you meet—especially if you’re the one to smile and say hello first.
- Savor virtual snapshots of delightful observations: a squirrel perched at the very tip of a branch, feather duster clouds sweeping the sky, the dimples on the back of a small child’s hand.
- Find richness in the commonplace: the miracle of crocus blooming through the snow, fire flames leaping on the hearth (never the same way twice), and raindrop jewels glistening on the foliage.
“For you, O Lord,
have made me glad by your work;
at the works of your hands
I sing for joy.”
–Psalm 92:4 ESV
Design to bless others.
Becoming artists of the everyday for our own hearts’ sake is certainly beneficial, but inspiring others to connect with the Master Artist as the result of our optimism, gratitude, and good cheer? Well, that just multiplies the blessing.
How have you painted your day with positivity, woven gratitude into the hours, or molded moments into sanctuaries of joy? Share with us in the Comment section below!
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*A phrase borrowed from Run with the Horses by Eugene Peterson.
**My thoughtful husband usually takes care of this chore, but he’s recovering from a subdural hematoma as many of you know. Such exertions as frost removal are not allowed for at least three months.
Art & photo credits: http://www.horchow.com (Richard Schem); http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.pexels.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.flickr.com; Nancy Ruegg.
From the Inside Out 
Thanks for the observations Nancy!
. I especially love the verse about a Merry Heart. So much more fun to have that than a crushed spirit. I have had more of the Merry Heart and laughter does good like a medicine. Thanks for writing your thoughts through your present trials. Last year I was in ICU at this time. Could hardly walk the 60 feet to the ER and this year I am walking up to 30 miles a week. I found a lot to laugh about while in the ER. (Probably gallows humor) but laugher is great when your happy and healthy as it is when you are sick and under the weather. Take care! Sam
Praise God for your recovery, Sam, and every mile you’re able to walk! How delightful you found much to laugh about while in the ER. We found humor there too. Our last visit, when an orderly came to get to get Steve, he announced, “I’m here to take you for your CT scan. Would you like fries with that?” 🙂
hot coffee in a mug and sunshine beams, yeah! 😄🍵
truly blessings.
Funny you should mention hot coffee in a mug. I included that very thing on my list, then edited it out to tighten up that point! Same with sunshine streaming in our south windows. You and I have same faves in common!
Obviously, KRCC, I wasn’t looking at the right section of the post when I responded to you the first time!! The last sentence is still true, at least. It’s always fun to discover favorite things in common with others. Thank you for your patience with me! 🙂
We need to catch up I had not heard about Steve. I did leave you a voicemail and sent a text… but I haven’t been on line. I’m so sorry about Steve’s health. I will be praying for a full recovery. Let me know if you need anything. ❤️
Yes, we DO need to catch up! Thank you so much for your prayers and your offer of help. I sent you a text too! Maybe I have the old number in my phone? Please call or text again when it’s convenient for you. (Are all the boxes unpacked yet?!)
love your positive spirit especially in this article. One reason I stay active on Facebook is to spread positive, Christian vibes and messages in the face of so much negative. And gratitude is so powerful!! I am grateful for you!
Oh, thank you, Jean! I’m grateful for YOU, too–your faithful encouragement has fueled my perseverance again and again. And I love your FB posts of wisdom, humor, and inspiration. You find the best treasures to share with us! Yes, indeed: gratitude IS a powerful force to keep the mind and spirit in a positive place!
Speaking of gratitude, let me just say that I am so thankful that the tapestry of my life includes the Lord bringing us together at Taylor University over 50 years ago; He knew that we would forge a lifelong friendship. And, I am blessed, encouraged, and learn much on a weekly basis from your blog.
I, too, am so grateful we’ve kept in touch all these years. It’s wonderful to have friends who are acquainted with your history. For example, I can say “You hang!” and you know just what I’m referring to! 🙂 And praise God you’ve found blessing, encouragement, and now and then a bit of knowledge here. Hallelujah!
Hi Nancy,
This is God’s love in action. Maybe our duty of love is to find ways to point it out, talk about, or create something…or blog in order for people to see Him?
Thanks,
Gary
You’re right, Gary: when we love someone or something, we DO point them out, talk about them, or bring attention to them in other ways. The same responses are more than appropriate for our Heavenly Father, in hopes that others see Him for who He is.