17 Comments
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Jimmie Stephens's avatar

You have knowingly put so much feelings into words I could never find. I know in my heart this is often why I can’t finish a project! I lack the confidence to look at my creations with a positive attitude! It’s hard to feel the gratitude for my own ideas!

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Make it a New Year's resolution to validate and appreciate what your hands, heart, and soul have created. Positive actions lead to positive thoughts. It's time for new beginnings - a gift we receive every day, especially on January 1. Happy New Year, Jimmie.

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Jimmie Stephens's avatar

I must try harder to believe in myself! I tell myself this will pass but I’m having times of doubt. Thank you for your words of encouragement.

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Thea Roy's avatar

Excellent sharing. Thank you, Lesley, for this powerful piece. It comes at the right time.

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Thank you, Thea. Here's to a magical New Year!

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NM Creatrix's avatar

Lesley, I found your fragments and they inspired me for many years. I am a quote junkie (I have a quote in your book...) and love fabric and scraps. Thank you for inspiring me all those years ago!

We moved a lot while I was in school so I was always the new girl and that certainly impacted me, so I can sympathize with your feelings! But we persevered!

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Lesley Riley's avatar

We've been connected for many years and are blessed to still be. Have a wonderful 2025.

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Sarah D's avatar

Oh Leslie, if you only knew how many times your words ring true for me. I completely relate to so much in this article, and I too have often felt wrong and like an imposter. But I have recently leaned into my weird art, regardless of how my community (or even family) may react to it, and I feel a solidifying of my voice that I know is going to take me places. Thank you for being a mentor to me, even though I know we may never meet. ❤️

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Lesley Riley's avatar

So good to hear, Sarah. I was once a busy mom artist, and I can relate. I am glad that you find support and encouragement in my posts. Thanks for writing, and have a wonderful holiday.

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Karen Rand Anderson's avatar

Daring to be wrong is also reaching to be right... takes bravery to step outside of whatever boundaries we mistakenly create for ourselves. I've been doing it all my life, consistently working to get beyond those boundaries; hence, I've had a crazily creative life, as have you! A wonderful post, thank you Lesley.. inspiring as always. Happy joyous Solstice season!

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Thank, Karen. Daring is reaching isn't it? "Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, Or what's a heaven for?" Robert Browning. Let's continue!

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Debra Lynn Vidal's avatar

I can relate...

We are the same age and have creative spirit in common. Have great holiday

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Thanks for your note, Debra. Enjoy your holidays.

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Michele Barnes's avatar

So true! Fearing to be wrong thwarts our creative self. We need to have a leap of faith, go for it! Life is too short! Thanks Leslie and Merry Christmas to you and yours! :D Michele Barnes

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Thanks, Michele. Your creative enthusiasm is contagious. So glad we connected at the Red Thread. See you in 2025.

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Maggieinsc's avatar

Another thought provoking read! Merry Christmas!

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Lesley Riley's avatar

Many thanks for reading my posts, Maggie. Have a great Christmas and New Year.

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