The subject of spirituality is taboo. Whether we're talking about religion, consciousness, or something completely mysterious, there seems to be a societal resistance to this area of conversation, for the most part. Some people cringe at the mention of certain names, as if they are poisonous. Some people can't seem to wrap their heads around certain walls and ceilings. Some people intentionally close the doors of their hearts.
It's simple to consider why spirituality is taboo. People wrestle over the truths, lies, and the violence that still exists today in the name of the people who best exemplified peace and harmony. At various times in various places, we strike people with stones, and burn people alive. Sadly, just this week, here in Austin, bombs took the lives of two prominent peace activists.
Some speak a little too loud, or think a little too logical, or behave a little too egotistical... fanning the fire of some people's fears. Some light prayer candles, burn incense, and cast their cares up in smoke. Some go numb, with nothing to believe. Some stay silent, living in secrecy. Some wait for the right place and the right time to speak up. Some believe Steemit is the time and place to share, right here and right now.
As for me, I sing and I paint, fanning the Creative Fire. I speak for the people, for the animals, and for the plants, cultivating the Sacred Medicine. I work to shine and sparkle in life, embodying the Warrior of Light. I explore spirituality on a daily basis. My study is firm and flexible. My line branches into a number of different paths, incorporating elements of several practices. My religion is open, inviting, and free. This is my Vision of a free world.
I allow the watercolors to move and flow in the ways that feel most natural, even as the colors spill outside the lines.
Note: Today, I am inspired by the #freedomchallenge, by @sagescrub, with the prompt: "If you lived in a free world how would your life be different?." My first thought with this prompt is: "Wait, but the world is free." And then I realized there are many, many layers of what free can be.
“I Love You So Much”
The Story
The illustration you see here is a simple glimpse of everyday heaven, featuring a man with a guitar and a woman with a maraca, making music together. The message reads: “Instantly there's light to guide us to the next step.” This book is a collection of sketches designed to help me envision the world I wish to live in. This video show my artistic process: in-the-flow. This music directly relates to the scene.
“I Love You So Much” is a sing-along song, designed for group singing. The format is a call-and-response, with repeating verses, inviting everyone to sing together in unison. It's a medicine song, a spiritual hymn, and an expression of gratitude. I received this song following a Concentration ceremony on June 15, 2016. This recording is a rough draft, just practicing the song.
I sketch these illustrations from the heart, working from memory and imagination.
The Lyrics
I love You so much
From the deepest abyss
To the highest of mountains
In thoughts words and actions
Heart mind and soul [soul]
I feel featherlight
I am gifted and lifted
With Love in my life
I feel fullness aliveness
Wellness and lightness [lightness]
Merry sunshine beams
Mirror myriad suns
On the waves in the moonlight
With one more reflection
The sparkle in my eyes [my eyes]
I choose to see
How You grant me my life
With my every heartbeat
I feel Your vibration
Under my barefeet [barefeet]
Peace begins with me
Being grateful for You
Being great in my life
And agreeing on being
The peacemaker I Am [I Am]
The Acknowledgements
I'm grateful to @sagescrub for bringing us Freedom Challenge #4. This is my first time participating directly in the event, although I've been an admirer since the beginning. Being the host of Steemit Vision Quest, I see the importance of visualizing the brilliance and beauty we wish to see in the world, and so it feels highly encouraging to put these visions into words today, regarding the freedom of religion.
I feel grateful for the freedom to share my thoughts, words, and actions through Steemit. I feel energized by the invitation to celebrate the Creative Age through the music and connections we share here. I feel encouraged by the growth I see in the people who participate in community challenge events like #freedomchallenge. Thanks to all of you who accept me as I am. And thanks to you for being who you are.
My family often joins me in the art sessions.
This post contains 100% original content by @cabelindsay.
