I first read the story of the man and the flood in Bernie Siegel’s inspiring book Love, Medicine & Miracles (1986). For anyone who doesn’t know this famous tale, a man is on his roof as the floodwaters begin to rise. Someone in a wooden boat rows by and offers him a ride. The man refuses to get in. Then a powerboat, and finally a helicopter. His refrain to each of them is “God will save me.” When he ultimately drowns and meets his Maker, he wonders where God was when he was facing his death. The response: “I sent you a rowboat, a motorboat and a helicopter.” Or, in Bernie’s case a surgeon, an oncologist, etc. Fortunately, Dr. Siegel embraced his ‘rowboat’ and ‘helicopter’ and is still living today to tell his tale.
Why do I bring this up? Because in a conversation with a good friend I was saying I wasn’t sure I was on the right path with my $2500 pillows. She reminded me of all the assistance I’ve been getting from the Universe since I took up this interest not quite a year ago. I have, literally, been flooded with help from so many sources – fabric, bead and button donations, purchases by good friends, links to incredible resources, and a groundswell of support wherever I look.
“Debbie,” (not her real name) I replied, “God has sent me a yacht!” We both laughed. I’m so afraid I’ll go under with this endeavor, but all evidence is to the contrary.
I advise my clients, friends and colleagues to not quit before the miracle. My built-in forgetter has to be overridden by those whom I surround myself with. “You’re on the right track, Jane. Do the next right thing. Make that call. Follow up, follow up, follow up.”
Our job as creative creatures is 1) to pursue our passion and 2) to get the word out about what we’re up to. Many of us fail to engage in #2 because it’s scary. What if they don’t like it, don’t want it, or even worse, ignore us? The answer, turn 5 degrees and approach another avenue. For me, that’s where my spirit comes in, and it’s my spirit that needs proper attention. My internal peace, joy and inspiration are what spur me onwards. I must keep that nourished on a daily basis so that I can do the hard work of exposing my precious offerings to the outer world.
What yachts are coming your way today?
Oh, how I love to see your name and attention-getting subject line in my inbox. I know I’m one click away from a useful insight you’ve decided, so generously, to share. I am learning from your experience. Thank you, Jane.
@Barbara Your positive reinforcement definitely energizes and encourages me to stick with it. Thank you!
Speaking of yachts….maybe you should look in the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. It is an extravaganza of luxury yachts. I am certain there is a way to market your beautiful creations at this show. I would be more than willing to help you!
https://www.flibs.com/en/home.html
@Elizabeth I love your out-of-the-box thinking on this. I’m definitely looking for luxury markets. Will add this idea to my list. Thank you!