Art — My Saving Grace • by Melody M. Nuñez

It sometimes seems as though I’ve lived many lives, and art has helped me though all of them.

As a child I was loved and cherished in some ways, but was also abused and neglected. My teens were pretty agonizing: my family splintered, came apart, and the full extent of its dysfunction was revealed. Thankfully, I was also loved and cared for by others (extended family and friends) who had no obligation to do so. My late teens and early twenties marked the beginning of my life — the one I had control over. And though I’ve made a few missteps, I’m a kind, positive, and capable adult. My past experiences affect me, but now they’re reminders of what strength can be found. My broken heart healed, became even stronger, and allowed an inordinate amount of compassion in along the way. I use that compassion to help others, whether I’m donating to a food bank or volunteer-teaching art journaling to disadvantaged children.

A common thread that’s been woven through my life is art, and other creative pursuits. Dance, creative writing, singing, ceramics, photography, paper arts, and mixed-media — all these things, done at different times in my life, have helped me thrive. They’ve given me a light to huddle next to during the darkest night, and have also borne witness to me shining like the sun in the noon sky. For me, art will always be both a safety net and a pair of wings. It lifts me and helps me soar among the peaks, and also catches me and keeps me from dashing against the rocks in the valley. Life is quite a ride, with so many ups and downs, and art is one of the things that make life livable. So I’ll keep living, loving, giving, and creating. I’m committed to living a wonderful life and to helping others along the way. Art is an essential part of that. Art Saves.

Melody M. Nuñez is an artist, a writer, and a blogger. An enthusiastic participant in life, she excels at creating, baking, and showering others with kindness Seldom daunted, she moves along life’s path as best she can, leaving smiles almost everywhere she goes You can see her artwork, read her blog, and get some great recipes at melodynunez.com.

Comments

[Karen]

Thank you, Melody for your inspiring story!

[Ellen]

Melody,
I am so glad you found art to be the anchor,for your soul! I love how it is your beacon, no matter how much light impacts you. I think of art like a lighthouse, it guides us and keeps us safe. We need only, pay attention and follow the guidance of our heart! I am so glad you found your light; It is admirable how you have made it shine~