For as long as I can remember, creating art has been part of who I am. It wasn’t something I ever questioned—it just felt natural, like breathing. As a little girl, I was always the first one at the easel, eager to paint whatever was in my mind. Over time, I’ve come to understand that my relationship with art goes much deeper than just a love for creating. It’s become a spiritual tool that connects me to my higher self and something far greater than I can fully explain.

When I’m in that flow state of creating, it’s an odd but beautiful balance of calm and excitement. It’s as if things in the world suddenly make sense to me in a way they don’t in my day-to-day life. There’s a sense of belonging, as if I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. At the same time, I feel a passion and energy that isn’t always present in the everyday. Sometimes, it even feels like there’s something beyond me guiding my hand, like I’m just carrying out an inner message that I don’t fully understand.

For a long time, especially in my 20s, I would joke that painting was my form of therapy. It always left me with a sense of relief and helped lift any anxiety I was carrying. But looking back, I realize that it wasn’t just a way to release emotions—it was a way for me to tap into my higher self, the part of me that connects with God. My spirituality has evolved a lot over the years, and now, more than ever, I feel that strong connection to my higher power, even though I’m not tied to a specific organized religion.

One of the most powerful spiritual practices for me has been daily gratitude. Every day, I make it a point to thank God for the gifts in my life, even when things aren’t perfect. I think that practice of gratitude has helped me find a deep appreciation for life and for the creative process itself. When I create, I embrace that gratitude and hope to express some of the joy and contentment I feel within myself through my work.

In many ways, I believe my art is a form of communication between me and my higher power. There are days when all I can think about is getting back to the easel, even if I don’t understand why. On those days, I feel compelled to create, as though there’s an unspoken message that needs to come through. I’ve come to realize that the uncertainty of life—of not knowing what’s coming next or what happens after this life—is something I’m learning to embrace. And in a way, my art helps reinforce that idea. By allowing uncertainty in my artwork—whether through the colors, shapes, or the process—I’m practicing acceptance of life’s unpredictability.

As a teacher, I always believed that art was more about the process than the final product. It was important for me to help children express themselves through their art, to find their own voice rather than worry about perfection. I carry that same belief into my own work today. I think it’s so healthy, not just for children but for adults as well, to have some kind of creative outlet—whether that’s art, writing, music, or even sports. For me, art is that outlet. It’s not just therapy—it’s a way to connect with my higher self, the universe, and the flow of life itself.