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I’m reading a new book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. I’m not sure where I read about this book. I know Leigh Anne is reading it, and so is Catherine. So here’s the thing: If there’s a group of us reading this book who want to chat, we could start a virtual book club. We could chat in Voxer or Google Docs. If you want to join in, email me at margaretsmn at gmail.
Four years ago I jumped into publishing and put out a middle-grade novel, Blessen. At the time, I found an old diary that told me I’ve wanted to be an author all my life. Notice my expectation as a teenager that maybe confidence came from someone else.
“I would love to be a writer if only someone would give me confidence!”
If growing up has taught me anything, it’s that confidence comes from courage that comes from your. own. self. No one else can give it to you.
Elizabeth Gilbert says she lives in fear everyday.
Creativity is a path for the brave, yes, but it is not a path for the fearless, and it’s important to understand the distinction.
Fear will always show up when you are trying to be creative. You can tell it to go away. But it’s always there. I love that this great author is telling me this.
I’ve grown to cherish this blogging space because I feel safe here. Whoever you are, reading and leaving me kind comments, you are my angels. You help me feel like my words are worthwhile and mean something.
Since my OLW is present, I am showing up. I’ll listen for the muse, the magician, whatever his name is and answer with a yeah, ok, let’s do this crazy creative thing together.
Being present this past weekend, my husband and I visited Lake Martin for the sunset on the way to our dinner/ dancing date. It was not the best of all sunsets. I got my boots muddy. But we showed up. With a little magic from the lens and Picmonkey, I created an inspiring image. On Sunday, I wrote a tanka for the image. And I am sharing it here. Kicking fear to the curb! See ya!
Photo and poem by Margaret Simon
Reflections on the Teche 
I just started Big Magic last night, and I love it. Have to say I agree with all of those scary, scary moments she mentions. So grateful to have this safe space to play and celebrate each other with our words.
Your tanka and photograph are beautiful. It captures the moment and more. Thank you for being present. Knowing you’re here helps me show up every Tuesday!
Margaret, I am inspired by the quote you posted. Never thought of creativity in that way. When we create we become transparent, vulnerable, but willing to accept comments on how we can grow as artisans of our trade.
Margaret, I love the colors, tone, and thought of your digital inspiration. May I capture it for a new gallery?
You have written so many things in this post that have clicked for me. First of all, let me say again that you are one of the most creatively talented people I know. I am always inspired by your words, your art, your being.
I have never considered myself to be confident in my creative self which is why I bought the book. I never thought about confidence coming from me. I have lived my whole life wanting acceptance from my father. I guess I had it all wrong.
Knowing that fear always shows up doesn’t make it any easier. But like you said, having this community certainly takes some of that fear away.
Last but not least, beautiful picture and beautiful poem. Here’s to Big Magic!
Thanks for sharing from Elizabeth Gilbert, Margaret. We all feel like this. We are always doubting, always a little afraid. So lucky to have each other in this community, aren’t we?
Bravery is doing it despite the fear. I tell my children that all the time. You make me brave Margaret. I am so grateful for our friendship.
I have the book, but haven’t started it yet. Remember your Cybils’ readings! But I will. So many of you have shared what a wonderful read it is. I love your picture and your tanka, Margaret. Showing up is really what it’s all about. I’m so glad that somehow we’ve connected, & hope that someday we’ll get to meet in person.
Well, hey, I am loving the dinner dancing dates down by the bayou – especially when they yield poems and pictures like this! Well done, friend!
Your poem and photo are so beautiful. Here’s to a year of being present (I had no idea we’d chosen the same word!) and fearless together!