Lessons From An Author

I recently had the amazing opportunity to hear Dominican author Julia Alvarez speak and read from "In the Time of the Butterflies" at the The Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center in Washington Heights, and the experience left me feeling so inspired to conquer the world with my words. It also encouraged me to help others do the same with whatever talent they possess.

Last week as I scrambled to post the Week 2 write-up for The Artist's Way workshop, and questioned why I was bothering since no one was going to read it, Ms. Alvarez's motivational words stuck with me.

In particular were these quotes she shared with us of other people that inspire her:

Regarding her creative process and how she comes up with her stories...
"If you don't live it, it won't come out your horn." -Charlie Parker

For taking a grand idea and turning it into an organized work of art...
"Grant me the intelligence and the patience to find the true pattern." -Mayan Weaver's Prayer

What she believes guided her to her philanthropic work both in Vermont (where she resides) and the Dominican Republic...
"The function of freedom is to free someone else." -Toni Morrison

I say we grab on to one or more of these as our mantra while we struggle through this workshop and writer's block and insecurities with our own abilities. I suggest you do like I did and write it on a bright piece of paper and tape it up where you can see it everyday.

Happy writing!

xoxo,
Raquel Ivelisse