Tuesday, September 04, 2012

Of Spots and Marks

If I could play connect-the-dots with my life, what picture would I end up with? I guess it doesn't really matter now so long as I look out for and embrace the bright spots that come my way.

This week was no exception and I find myself humbled with gratitude for little nudges from the Universe to write, to share my small voice, and to put myself out there. Actually, I think they've been more than nudges... more like whacks in the head. :-)

This week's bright (purple) spots:
  • I submitted a 2-page proposal to present a personal project at a conference. My heart did a little somersault when I saw the call for papers in my inbox and a backflip when I realized I had less than a week before the deadline. But thanks to input and comments from amazing people, I managed to draft, revise, and submit something just in time. It could be the spark that I need to quit procrastinating and get back into my writing. More details coming soon... if my proposal is accepted!
  • Mama called me this afternoon to tell me she ran into my summer school teacher who still remembers me after more than 25 years! She taught me and Ate Kim speed reading and creative writing (yes, we were nerdy kids) which helped plant creative seeds and dreams in a 7- or 8-year-old Nikki. Papa said she probably remembered me as the class clown, haha! I'd like to send her a note of thanks.
  • Thanks to my parish, a friendly priest came to visit tonight who not only blessed my new apartment, but also prayed for my hopes and dreams. We had a nice chat about cartoons, work-life balance, and stories. I gave him a copy of my book and he said it reminded him of a wonderful storybook he read years ago: The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. I quickly Googled it and got a lump in my throat. It was exactly what I needed to hear: "Just make a mark and see where it takes you."
And the week's not over yet! :-) I could seriously feel myself shushing my inner critic and asking her to stand in the corner. It's about time I did!

What "dot" or mark will I make? Where will it take me? Stay tuned.