It was then the I carried you...
To create and give is the greatest gift.
I'm sure many of you are familiar with the famous Footprints poem, if not I am going to include it here, it is worth repeating. (although the true author is somewhat of a mystery)
One night a man had a dream. He dreamed He was walking along the beach with the LORD. Across the sky flashed scenes from His life. For each scene He noticed two sets of footprints in the sand. One belonging to Him and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of His life flashed before Him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of His life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times of His life.
This really bothered Him and He questioned the LORD about it. LORD you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me.
The LORD replied, my precious, precious child, I Love you and I would never leave you! During your times of trial and suffering when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.
Carolyn Carty, 1963
I have been moved beyond words how this amazing piece has shown up again at this moment in my life.
I used to have this as a bookmark when I was a child and yes I have loved to read ever since then. I even used to read in my closet at night so I could have the light on.
Nonetheless, This beautiful work has come back into my life after some friends reached out and asked that I make a painting that both symbolizes "Footprints" and stands on it's own as a work of art.
I couldn't wait, I was both honored and excited. Time slid comfortably by as I worked on it and as much as this finished painting was a gift to them it was an even bigger gift to me.
In more ways than I can fully explain, the poem, the actual subject matter (I love water, oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls etc being by them and painting them,) the service through doing what I love, lifting someone up and bringing them true joy and how this came out of no where.
Out of darkness a way was made and reminds me of how Thoreau says, "I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
Honestly this painting hits on everything that truly fulfills my spirit. To be called to this service, to give a gift created from my heart that brings someone tears of joy... magical, mystical, surprising, joy, thankfulness, gratitude, honor, and speechlessly humbled.
It was then that I carried you.
3' x 5'
Oil on Museum Grade Gallery Wrapped Canvas
Do what you love and the joy will appear. It is my hope that if you are reading this, you follow your heart and find what's beautiful to do in your life.
Thank you,
With Love Always,
Rebecca
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