Looking inside means understanding dark corners...

It is the depth of winter.   I have just spent the last week tending to ill children while still trying to do all that must be done.  We all do this.  It is just how it is. 
I know that part of a balanced life is allowing for quiet.  Allowing for dark.  Allowing for cozy.
 It is just how it is.
I am not sure why I fight it each winter. 
I should know by now it is coming.
I think the world we have created does not allow for this darkness, this hibernation-state.
We are creators, teachers, care-givers.
The part of us inside that sparks this is never extinguished.
What we must remember, though, is that all flame requires fuel.
What we must remember, though, is that the best light from within shows when it is darkest around us.
Embrace what is.
This painting is something I challenged myself to do this New Year.
The Nature Spirit, here, is named Vrai.  This is the word for true in French. 

She has manifested in many ways throughout my life.

She is always there.

When I ignore my truth.

She shows up to remind me to be kinder to myself.

I am glad that she does.

"Her beauty shone in places bright or dark,

her voice made the very birds listen."

Go, allow yourself some quiet, some dark.

Embrace the corners that are deep and mysterious.

Bring light to them

with

a single

small flame.