One of the biggest things I’ve learned on this journey of being seen and sharing my work -and myself - online is that kindness is always the right answer. .
So much can be said when it’s done in kindness, and it can invoke reflection, growth and change. On the flip side, so little can be said in ‘unkindness’ because it prompts fear, defensiveness, rejection and anger. .
People have told me that they love about what I’m creating, and they’ve also shared what they don’t love about an image... or a dance... an idea... or a poem.
When done in kindness, honest communication creates connection, experience and open-hearted conversation.
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They’ve questioned my motives for creating, my choice of imagery, my ability to get the perspective in drawings right, and even my ability to simply create for an audience. ✨
And when the questions are asked from a place of genuine curiosity and kindness, I welcome them with open arms. It’s totally okay to disagree with another human out there. (Even one who you respect and love!)
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It’s okay to think differently and still remain respectful of one another’s art or ‘way’ of being in the world. 💛 It’s healthy to disagree, even, because it helps us all to better understand our own unique journeys. I know for me, people’s questions open the way for inner work and personal exploration. And I hope I am able to offer them the same. 💛
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Here’s where I tend to start when I see something that I disagree with:
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Wait 5 minutes ✨
Why did this trigger me
What can I learn
What’s the lesson here
Am I sure I am the only keeper of the truth
Is there more than one right answer
Is it possible that we are both right
Is there a ‘kind’ way to approach this
Is being right worth being unkind
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Some day I will write a whole lot more on how we treat one another online, but for now... a little PSA for sending some love into the world today 💛
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Giant love creator souls, with tons of kindness baked in,
xo
