2023.04.02 Ready's Ramblings Episode 042 (Patreon)

Friends, it’s been a while since we had a Ready’s Rambling so here we go.

There’s always hope. I mean that in the broadest sense. Every one of you reading this has inspired me in one way or another. The fact we’ve all come together online to share common interests and enjoy each other’s work means so much to me. I know not everyone reading this would consider themselves a creator of art but you are a creator of the community we share. You’re important no matter who you are.

I want to add the caveat it does require your participation and effort to make a difference. It’s an active thing. You may have heard the phrase “be the change you want to see” and I think it applies. We all want to live in a world where we can share, have our own likes yet still get along well with everybody else. I personally believe most people are loving and caring. Please know, I care about you too. I’m not referring only to people who give me money or who like my art! I’m talking about everybody. I’ve been very fortunate to have your support and know I support you as well.

I’ve shared posts containing links to other friends and fans who are making creative works. Some of that is art, some of that is writing and some are just looking for others who enjoy their tastes. For those who might be on the fence about sharing their own ideas, I hope you become inspired to do so.

If you’re reading and wondering if you should put your work (or YOU) out there, you should. It’s okay if you take a few lumps doing so. This is why I feel it’s very important to be civil when you’re online. I foster and encourage civil feedback at all turns. I’m not a fan of “hot takes” or knee-jerk reactions. Those tend to be hyperbolic and extreme. I’ve learned over the years to the temper my “instant reaction” down, then relax and wait before I jump in with my opinion.

True, thoughtful, critical feedback is one of the most important things you can get or give. It doesn’t need to be positive but it does need to be considerate.

I believe the world is basically good and that people want to do good. I also believe each one of us has an important goal to achieve while we are alive. Part of that goal is to connect with others and share our internal gifts. That can mean a lot of things. For some it’s creating art, for some it may be as simple as listening to others, for a few it may mean using physical skills.

The point is we are all searching for what we're good at. That search will likely last a lifetime. The best news is the fun stuff happens during the journey. I want your journey to be awesome and enjoyable. You’ve helped make my journey enjoyable and I want to do what I can to help you.

I’m going to continue giving you my best effort and I appreciate your support in any form, paid or not. Overall, I am both humbled and overjoyed by your response.

Thank you so much and there is so much more to come. Love you all and I will talk with you soon!

-Ready