Quantum Leap

Steve, your video questions made me stop, think, and aacitulrte where I'm at on the Burning Desire Resources Willingness to Change leap. Since I benefitted from your video and the only thing you asked for were comments, then I can oblige, even it this is a bit exposing.I went back to school at 38 to learn to paint, something I'd always wanted to do. (And prove that I could indeed graduate after falling in love and being academically suspended 20 years earlier.) I got a degree in Illustration and did some magazine work, as well as sold some paintings. Near the end of my university studies I won a student art contest. As a result, my painting was purchased and images were used on promotional material. But the really exciting and satisfying part was being able to speak to the international delegation of the sponsors of the contest. I spoke on the metaphor of my painting, Guardians of the Family , and traditional families. It was an inspiring moment for me. (Also, the delegates received a signed print of my work from the sponsors.) I didn't realize then that the painting's content and remark's that followed were what was really important to me. After spending some time pursuing other roads (I never wanted any of them bad enough) I came back to what I know and feel strongest about. Family. I just thought it wasn't really a valid avenue for me before. But, friends are always asking me for advice and I know most people's strongest desires are for their families. I've seen the struggle in their eyes and that they want, need, advice and help. Many people want to give their best efforts to their families, they just don't know what to do, nor have any creative ideas to do it. I know a thing or forty about being a united, happy family and that it's not an illusion or guesswork. I married the man that helped me get suspended from school. We've been married 29 years and have 8 children. The oldest is 26 and the youngest 11. Five years ago, my husband took an overseas oil rig job (that he swore he'd never do again) so that I could use my skills for my own career pursuits, while being a stay at home mom for our kids. I was supposed to have made good by now and bring him home. He isn't unhappy about my efforts, but I am. Even though I don't know the path, I am determined and feel compelled to use my art, writing, and speaking to help families live happily. It's what I do best. Thanks again Steve. If we work together in the future and I'm successful, then I hope to return the favor. Shannon