Berea, Ky is my home, and I love it! It rests against the western face of the Appalachian Mountains. With any given sunset, you’ll find yourself reaching for your phone to create your storybook picture. Each time I wonder who I can send mine to that would appreciate such beauty. Beauty that only our Creator can make. Berea is full of “creators.” It is the “Folk Arts and Craft Capital of Kentucky,” where many residents create art through woodcrafts, weaving, broom crafts, and ceramics. It is a culture of creativity, innovation, and assertiveness.
Artists take many forms, but the one commonality is creation. It can be a beautiful ceramic vase filled with seasonal flowers or a wonderfully written song that touches the depths of our hearts. It can also be in the actions of an individual moving through each day. Someone who navigates and negotiates life’s trials with eloquence. Those fascinating individuals who are assertive and pursue life’s gifts. They unapologetically go after what they want. They allow the world to feel the full weight of who they are. They can live passionately. They live with assertiveness.
The assertive creator is not passive. They have a real understanding that passivity is paralyzing and limits action. It is the opposite of assertiveness. Creator’s are doers who take action and do not wait for the right time. They live with zeal in their heart and mind. Passive individuals lack energy and are fearful, which leads to zero courage. Without courage, we are unable to let the world see our magic. Courage allows us to step out from the curtain and be bold.
There have been many times in my life where I did not take action. I live with regret and wish I would have been courageous. I did not impose my will and let the world see my gifts and determination. I think all of us, at some point, have regretted not taking action. We did not speak up for those who could not. We didn’t stop and help those in need because of our hurried life. We sat idle because we were fearful. We must fight against the temptation of passivity. Be kind, and forgive yourself. Use your artistic abilities and create better scenarios, which leads to a better world.
Keep in mind that wrongful assertiveness exists. Some are bold in declaring opinions about every little thing. These are individuals who are overly forward and have a disregard for others. This regularly occurs on social media, where the unassertive are disguised as assertive, but usually for the wrong reasons. Let us always keep in mind what our intentions are. Our words and actions must bear good fruit. We must be mindful of how they affect others.
Take a risk and assert yourself. Be an artist with your actions, and weave your life blanket. Others will notice your beautiful work and follow your path of action. Keep moving forward with passion and intentionality.
