life is a splendid torch

This is the true joy of life, the being used up for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.

Life is no “brief candle” to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for a moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations. ~George Bernard Shaw

I love this quote! This is so much how I feel about life. Sometimes people ask me how I do all that I do in my life. I do what I do because it brings me joy and because it gives my life purpose. I try to live my life with intention and endeavor not to squander an ounce of my life force on mindless pursuits. I don’t watch a lot of movies because I like to star in my own. I write. I play. I dance. I view art and support my artist friends.

I don’t get bored with life because I constantly engage with it. I ask questions and poke around. I create stuff, make messes and clean them up. I feel like my job here in this lifetime is to enjoy myself and serve the greater good. I endeavor to do this every day.

With each day that passes, I become more aware of my mortality and I desire to build a legacy for my children and future generations. Lately, I have been putting frames on my creations and pulling my work together more. I’m thinking more about the span of my life and what to make of this journey. It feels good to stop seeking so much and a take broad, sweeping look at what I’ve found.

It’s been a rough year in many ways, but I’m realizing that I am in the middle of a huge rite of passage in my life and that’s very good. My soul has pushed me into a place of stillness and reflection so I would pay attention. I am and, perhaps for the first time in my life, I am really honoring myself, my talents and my own Hero’s Journey. All I can say is it’s about fucking time.

Life is indeed a splendid torch and I am going to keep fanning the flames of mine and burn even brighter.

One final note, I could never do anything without the love and support of some amazing friends and family and for that I am deeply grateful.