Enriching the Lives of Others • by Tonia Davenport

I firmly believe we are all blessed with talents for one sole purpose and that purpose is that they give us the ability to enrich the lives of others. Creating art with the intention of making someone smile or, in any way possible, bringing love or compassion into someone’s day is the true motivator for me. One of my favorite things to do is to surprise someone, and that’s even more fun when it’s anonymous.

Recently I began a 16-week commitment to be a Free Arts of Arizona Mentor and this work has taught me that not only can I use my ability to make things as a way to give back to others, but I can use my art-making knowledge to simply share the process of self-expression with at-risk youth and teach them the therapeutic value of art. This has opened up a new world for me, and a new way for me to extend my talents to others. It’s all very selfish really, for I think I’m the one who walks away with the most joy.

To learn more about Tonia Davenport, view her blog at toniadavenport.typepad.com.

Comments

[Crystal Neubauer]

Tonia without a doubt you are bringing joy to those who you share your creativity with and reflecting to other artists what it looks like to use their talents for the benefit of a greater purpose then themselves. Thank-you for being such an inspiration!
Crystal

[Jan Avellana]

hello tonia!
the mentoring work you are involved in sounds absolutely amazing...how fortunate those around you are to receive the love and compassion you bring into the world. :) jan

[colette]

Girl! I am in such awe of you. Always finding new ways of giving, it's so inspiring. Lead on sunshine, lead on. Lead on with your big big beautiful heart.

(I'd be remiss not to mention what a grand surprise it is to see my blog link here along with your story. I am honored to be here with you, and in the fine, fine company of CRESCENDOh.)

Colette

[Ellen]

Tonia,
Very admirable the work you are doing; Art can touch so many in unexpected ways! I am happy you found a way to pass this joy onward and use your talent to aid others! Thanks for sharing your wonderful story!

[June Roman]

Wow Tonia, what great things you are doing! It sounds very much that you recognize (in the words of Eckhart Tolle)... you don't live your own life...life lives you! Go where the spirit carries you and accept all of its grace with thanks.