Happy Valentines Day

  I spent the day with a very dynamic group: The Innovative Art Alliance.  We are a diverse group of artists that come from all over south eastern Ohio and northern West Virginia.  Our monthly meetings are all about networking and sharing. One of our members, Diane, has ALS, (also known as Lou Gerhig's disease). We have slowly been witness to the loss of use of her legs, then her arms. She is an amazing creative woman, who despite her ever increasing limitations, continues to not only lead us, but inspire us with her ever present courage and wisdom. It has been quite a while since she has been able to put a needle to fabric, but that does not stop her indominable spirit. Her creative outlet has become her thoughts and her words. She shared a few of her poems with us today.  One poem in particular resonated with me. It talked about how we spend our lives trying to be "good enough", and that, at some point we need to realize we are, what we are...and that is perfect for us!  It reminded me of the old Amish quote, that we are " too soon old, too late smart."
   On this day of hearts and love, I am sending out all the love and healing energy I can muster to you, Diane. And thank you for giving me permission to be who I am.