Total Art Soul - for artists

I love the Indiana Jones trilogy. Out of all of them, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is probably my favorite because of one memorable scene: the leap of faith. Jones is standing before what appears to be an impossible chasm but needs to reach the other side.  He wrestles with what he sees- this vast crevasse with no passage, and what he knows- that a Leap of Faith will get him across.

That scene gave me goosebumps the moment Indy took that first step off the edge of the cliff. My heart raced; I could FEEL his fear and then his foot landed on the bridge that couldn’t be seen until that first step was taken! Didn’t we all go, “Whew!” right along with him?

I’ve been sitting here since 4 AM, reflecting on situations in my life when I faced that same chasm. Deep, far and seemingly impossible to cross and at the very core of each situation are two opposing and completely intertwined driving forces:   fear and faith.  Even in the most mundane daily activities I tend to choose the safe and predictable path and looking back, I’ve realized that that choice comes from being conditioned to avoid that which I fear. In recent years there have been many challenges and people put into my life I am certain to make me truly look fear in the face. Stand toe to toe. Stand at the edge of the chasm.

In not one instance, did anyone ever PUSH me off the edge, rather simply said, “What are you going to do, Jen?”  The choice was mine. One person in particular nearly daily would silently ask me, “Will you take that step?”

To avoid the appearance of being melodramatic, I have to say that this post is not just about major life changes. It is that every day we are faced with little choices – easy, predictable way or new and unknown.  As it has been done to me many many times over the last few years, I challenge you to stand toe to toe with uncertainty. Stand on the edge.  Take that first step. Be your own Indiana Jones.  I promise, everyone will go, “Whew!” right along with you.

DON’T MISS TOMORROW’S FOLLOW-UP POST:

So What Does Indiana Jones Have To Do With Art?