Living in the Boston area in the first decade or so after college, I was viewing art often as a hobby. Since some of my family lived near NYC, I used the opportunity to see exhibits there twice a year. Between Boston area, NYC and business trips elsewhere I fed my passion for modern art most weeks of those years, soaking it up. Pieces with color, movement, texture and light fueled me deep inside.

Once or twice a year some buildings renovated as artist studios hold open studio days.  At one of these on a second floor lobby I came upon a very exciting piece.   I said  to myself, “I want to see more work of that painter.”  In that person’s space, I relished regarding the work. While there, another visitor appeared– to my surprise I knew this person, she, a close friend of my best friend and her husband. What an amazing “coincidence”!

Later, as I told my best friend about seeing her, I heard myself say that I would love to study with this artist. My friend volunteered to call her family friend and request her to speak with the artist about lessons on my behalf. In just a couple of days the artist, who did not usually teach adults, had agreed to teach me privately at a reasonable rate. Studying with Lena Marchi, painter and printmaker, launched me on course to becoming the artist I am today.

I love telling that story. When I recount it, I am filled with gratitude and a sense of miracles that unfold for me. I see that I have been guided. I see that I followed impulses, was sent helpers. I acknowledge that I studied, learned, practiced, persisted.

When we tell a story that brings up our passion we focus on what we love and of what we want more. Our imagination is ignited–we feel like we are there again.Abraham recently shared a story from Esther’s life, a time when her daughter called for help and before she could get it she told a story of how good she had felt being with Abe and then said realized that was all she needed– she was back feeling good. My point: we can tell stories like this, ones we love to tell on purpose. Replaying these stories lifts you when you want to shift your focus. 

I encourage you to tell stories about good things that happen (ed) to you. — past or present. Get your juices of enjoyment flowing! “There was this time…”, ” I loved how…”  , ” It felt great when…” It contributes to the whole world as you tell these stories as much as you like! Please spread your enthusiasm, passions and pleasures!

What story do you want to share with me and these readers? Please write me at jpearl@streamofyes.com. Because it feels so good!