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Dear Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

by | Sep 20, 2021 | Creativity, Everyday, Home, Inspiration, Motivation, Stamina | 0 comments

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”

–  Suzy Kassem

 

There are days when one feels nothing works or everything is wrong. Today is one of those days so I use my magical toolbox to find a secret weapon. One of them is a book and one of those books is “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert.

One of my favourite parts I will share here though I suggest you to get the book and take notes. I wrote down every par tor quote I felt resonating with and I use it as a little prayer when confronted with a big F.

 

ivana-filip-cici-photography-TI
          Photo: Cici, Ivana Filip, 2021

Gilbert writes:

“Dearest Fear:

Creativity and I are about to go on a road trip together. I understand you’ll be joining us, because you always do. I do acknowledge that you believe you have an important job to do in my life, and that your take your job seriously. Apparently your job is to induce complete panic whenever I’m about to do anything interesting – and, may I say, you are superb at your job. So by all means, keep doing your job, if you feel you must. But I will also be doing my job on this road trip, which is to work hard and stay focused. And Creativity will be doing its job, which is to remain stimulating and inspiring. There’s plenty of room in this vehicle for all of us, so make yourself at home, but understand this: Creativity and I are the only ones who will be making any decisions along the way. I recognize and respect that you are part of this family, and I will never exclude you from our activities, but still – your suggestions will never be followed. You’re allowed to have a seat, and you’re allowed to have a voice, but you are not allowed to have a vote. You’re not allowed to touch the road maps; you’re not allowed to suggest detours; you’re not allowed to fiddle with the temperature. Dude, you’re not even allowed to touch the radio. But above all else, my dear old familiar friend, you are absolutely forbidden to drive.”

Today is the day for a new letter to my fear. It can be a line or two, but at least acknowledging it for existing instead pretending that I do not know what is happening or God forbid that I fear not!

Love and thanks,

Ivana

Ivana Filip’s collection of works and products is inspired by her research, affect and close coexistence with nonhumans. Works in the shop as such represent the extension of her artistic practice. Hopefully these artworks and products can contribute to your richer experience and relationship with nonhumans or perhaps make your dear one jollier. Every month we shall donate 10% of our monthly income to a non-profit dedicated to the protection of nonhumans in Croatia.

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