Empty & Filled

[“Empty & Filled” 8x10, available in the shop] 

This painting is the first one out of the last thirty I’ve painted that hasn’t already been sold, that I painted just for me, just because I wanted to. Fittingly, it’s titled “Empty & Filled” which matches a question I’ve been pondering a lot lately—what empties me and what fills me? The answers are as varied as the context—personal, professional, in relationships, where I volunteer to put my time and energy.  I feel so sensitive to making sure I make space to fill my soul with things just for me, just for my happiness and health. And then when everything else comes to take—whether it’s dishes to do or a project I’ve committed to or people who need my attention— I have something to give. Paying attention to this has given me the added bonus of watching for those around me who might seem empty. It’s become a secret goal to see if I can do anything to fill them, even just a little. I’m amazed at how small things like a hug or listening to them talk about themselves or taking their coat or holding a door have brought a smile. Which, turns out, fills me up too. What do you do to make sure you’re filled?