Permission to be Great

I harbor a guilty pleasure: award shows. Surprised? They ignite that fantasy portion of my brain and I visualize "what if?" What if there were nationally televised award programs specifically targeted to visual artists? Can the subjective approval of art be measured? What would be distinctive, considered excellent enough to garner special merit? What would truly be "award-winning (not self-proclaimed) and by who's standards?

Okay, that's just too crazy to even consider and yet another subject for an all-night discussion. So, I'm watching the Golden Globes last week and Leonardo DiCaprio wins best actor in a musical or comedy. His acceptance speech includes much gushing about Martin Scorcese, seated in the audience and director of the film DiCaprio has won the award for. DiCaprio calls Scorcese a "risk-taker", a "visionary", putting "the fabric of our culture on screen." I agree. Massively talented, his list of accolades is beyond impressive and his multi-tasking for not only directing films but also screenwriting, producing, acting and filling in as film historian is nonpareil. When do these over-achievers sleep? What drive. His work is great, he will leave a legacy of greatness, he drags his players along with him to great accomplishment...he's just an inspiration to become great.

Pondering this in my studio the next morning, I'm wondering if I could be great. Could I ever paint a great canvas or aspire to a great idea? What really defines "great?"

With arms folded in front a large commissioned canvas, I gather up the chutzpa to whisper to myself: today I will do something great. Just like that. This hesitant yet audacious statement prompted a liberating feeling of empowerment. Like giving myself permission to really strive, achieve and go for it. It promised opportunity for growth with assurance. It handed out confidence. It's too simple.

I urge you to give a a shot...you won't be sorry. They're just words, after all. I've said it everyday since the Golden Globes. I'm emboldened.

Discover you own greatness,
Sharon

Patriot Guard Riders

In time for Veterans Day, I'd like to introduce you to the Patriot Guard Riders. Perhaps you're already familiar with this organization - I wasn't until my brother's funeral this past weekend.

They originally formed to protect families of deceased and fallen heroes: be they law enforcement, fire fighters, first responders or any active duty or veteran service member of the armed forces. The impetus was the Westboro Baptist Church, who claimed that the deaths of American troops in Iran and Afganistan was God's retribution for homosexuality tolerance in the U.S. These motorcycle riders would block the Westboro protesters with their motorcade replete with large waving American flags and by revving up their engines while singing patriotic songs.

The group has evolved to establish a mission of RESPECT. They are a non-profit 501(3)C dedicated to ensuring respect and dignity for our fallen heroes. Check out their website for more details: Patriot Guard Riders.

They'll perform this selfless ministration for any family of a service hero who requests it. ANY. This is regardless of political or religious affiliation. I'm humbled by their beliefs, values and dedication. They didn't know my brother personally, yet showed up on a cold and blustery November day to perform a duty of utmost RESPECT. Some rode from sizable distances to assist us. They accompanied our procession from the agreed upon meeting place to almost an hour's drive to the Veterans Cemetery.

The first of our Patriot Guard Riders arrive.

While we waited for a prior funeral observance to finish, our Patriot Guard Riders rode ahead and established themselves into their sentinel positions:

The Patriot Guard Riders surround my brother's final resting place.

They held their posts steadfast until every last one of us departed.

My brother was a decorated (Bronze Star, Purple Heart) Communications Officer of the U.S. Air Force and served in Vietnam and other countries. He was also a VFW Post Commander for several years and volunteered his time and talents generously. I'm so proud that his life and service was honored by this illustrious organization. There are no words to describe my gratitude, awe and how much I'm moved by it all.

Patriot Guard Riders, I salute you.
Sharon