Why? Why??? Why do you do that???

#doodleinstitute #mygirlfriendvoice advice & strategies emotions & emotional inventory honesty i don't care what you think mothers mother’s and daughters relationships & communication relaxation technique vulnerability

I still chuckle when I think of this conversation with my Mother. Mom asked me, “Why are you so honest?” The question came out of the blue on a Sunday afternoon phone call. I laughed but not unkindly and replied, “It’s the only way I want to be.”

Wait a minute, wasn’t I raised to be honest?

Isn’t honesty a core value?

Is it weird that my Mother is questioning my virtue or am I on Candid Camera? (for you Millennials, this was a TV show a hundred years ago.)

Yes, I am honest. Proudly honest. I can also tell you that honesty is not a license to be cruel or to share your unsolicited opinion. Have you ever had someone roll into your life, framing their words with, “I’m just being honest!” Thank you very much –NOT! I don’t want any type of uninvited advice. Just to be extra clear, I don’t give anyone permission to comment on my appearance, love life, parenting skills, cooking, driving, sleeping habits and diet UNLESS I ASK YOU TO COMMENT! Thank you.

(If you are new to the world of digital communication (Mom), typing in capital letters means I am shouting at you. I am not typing in capitals because it looks cool or because it is easier to read on my phone. ) Getting back to the story…… I’ve digressed!

I had another conversation recently about my artwork. I was asked a simple question. “Why do I chose to share my doodles and private thoughts on the internet?”

Good question, however the answer is not quite as simple as the inquiry.

I do it because I find it relaxing.
I do it because there is nothing wrong with illustrating a variety of emotions; even the sticky grey ones related to depression.
I do it because I feel compelled to share.
I do it because it is good for me.

Yes, I do it because I like to and it is good for me. Drop the mic!

Another question came up recently, causing me to chuckle. “Do I have a process?” A what? No, unless my process is sitting down with paper and a pen.

I don’t draw unless I feel an idea pop into my head. I can’t force my creativity but rather I allow my creativity to take me! Last night I was watching a program on PBS (my exciting life!!!) and the lady was talking about how we make our own prisons with our thoughts.

Shazam! An image popped into my head. Yes, I couldn’t agree more. We put all kinds of restraints on our power, our abilities. We let fears and anxieties box us in. Blame, anger, regret, worry, doubt…… they keep us locked out of THE PRESENT. (capital letter for emphasis, not shouting here, Mom).

Do I share everything I create? Hell no! I have a drawing titled “Nooner Envy”. I’ll leave it to your imagination. That one won’t be going up on Facebook !

The question lingers. “Why do I share my art and my words? ” By sharing, I allow myself to be vulnerable. I am becoming friends with that word, v..u.l..n..e..r..a..b..l..e. (Mom, those dots between the letter are there to look cool and to remind you to slow down; let the thought sink in.)

Maybe the answer is simple after all? It feels really good to have a new friend. Hello Vulnerable!

From the heart,

Cara

PS: Happy Birthday Momma!

Why? Why??? Why do you do that???

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