Keeping Secrets

Funny how things are swept under rugs so we can live our lives like nothing ever happened. This act inhibits growth. A strong majority of families live this way, with rugs sitting on decades of dirt surrounded by clean, polished floors. So is it wrong for me to want to air out the rug, so to speak? Why wear blinders? Why not be  honest with ourselves and others about what's hidden in our past? To not only help us get over it, but to overcome it. Your past will haunt, and ultimately rule, your life. Here's another grand reason why you should share your experiences: Imagine the positive impact you can have on someone suffering quietly over the same things you've struggled  with. The personal connections you can make with others based on shared experiences are incredible.

"Our secrets keep us sick." Mama was so right. But it's not only our secrets that keep us sick, it's what we go through to keep the secrets. The lies, the deceit, the denial, the fear that the people around us will no longer love us if the truth was out there for all to see. The fear that forgiveness isn't for you, the fear of hurting others. Theodor Seuss Geisel said it best when he said, "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

Surround yourself with people who love you. Be honest with them, let them be honest with you. Be honest with yourself. Don't hide. If you have to hide, maybe you aren't in the right place. Don't repress, remember and overcome.

And by the way.......forgiveness is for everyone. Yes. Even the ones who have wronged you.

A Warning of Blog Content

I have been working on a series that will be the content of my next several posts. I wanted to warn you to have your tissues at the ready when you sit down to read. Some of them may end up being real tear jerkers.

I have wanted to write a book about my life for so long. The problem? I am a total scatter brain. Here one minute, ten years in the past the next. I decided to start by writing down short thoughts and memories as they come to me, and later put them into the proper chapters. Some of my more memorable and contemplative writings will be posted here. I am open to and would appreciate any thoughts or comments, as this will be my editing process.

Farewell Ben King........

My dearest friend, though he'd never admit it, is leaving Bryson City for opportunities in California. I will miss his talent, his ideas and his input. There's no one else like him in this little town of ours. There will be an unfillable void. Ben is one of few friends who can handle the truth as well as they dish it out. I'll miss our sibling-like bickering.

As many of you know, Ben is a very talented photographer. In the last couple of years he has helped me with photos for my music and for my job at Humanité. However, getting a picture of Ben was never easy. So to honor him before he leaves I have decided to post some of mine and Aj's greatest attempts. Hope you enjoy.

 Don't forget to tell Ben how much you love him before he goes.....he just loves emotional moments. heehee

In case you haven't already, check out Ben's photography blog!

To brighten it up a bit...........

A couple of little sketches I did in a happier moment. Did these at The Charles Heath Gallery while Aj worked. I enjoy hanging out in the gallery with Aj and Charles. It's an experience! The personalities, the music, the inspiration!