The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process is its own reward.
~Amelia Earhart~
I was thrilled to discover that the movie Amelia will be opening this month. There was a terrific article in the USA Weekend. Hilary Swank is playing Amelia, and speculation is that she might capture another Oscar. I hope so!
Amelia had the grit that made her who she fundamentally was. In reading the article this weekend, I realized that Hilary too has the same grit; the stuff that supersedes society rules. Despite her difficult childhood, Hilary’s mom told her Can’t is a word she shouldn’t say. Hilary found ways to simply Do whatever it was she set out to do.
On a note, the article mentioned that some of the smartest women in the film industry have production compaines, or are a partner in one. They look for material they can play, and keep abreast of the competitive business. That reminded me how important it is for artists to stay true to themselves. It’s important enough that these women want excellent material, something that will challenge them and has personal meaning.
Exactly how I feel about writing! Somewhere between childhood and now, I paid attention to where my intuition and creativity led me and haven’t looked back. I’m on a journey of discovery, about my craft and challenging myself. That’s where the You Can comes into play in my life.
I’m curious, what You Can aspect are you focusing on now?
LaDonna,
My “You Can” is adapting more self motivation. I’m learning that the deadlines I give myself are equally as important as those given to me by others. I’m learning that I shouldn’t need or count on others to push me but that instead, I should learn to listen to that inner drive.
Great and timely post for me. Thanks LaDonna,
Elle
My “You can” is simply school work. Hate it, hate it, hate it, but if I don’t do it, I’ve just wasted my time and money already invested. I’m at the half-way point for the two year degree. It’s only taken me three years to get this far, lol.
Here’s hoping that my plane doesn’t go down and I’m never heard from again.
Hi, LaDonna!
Like Elle, My “You Can” is about self-motivation, too. I want to stay on track and keep my writing energized.
LaDonna,
I can’t wait for this movie to come out. I’ve always been captivated by Amelia and her pioneer can-do personality and exploits.
Interesting comment about Hilary and writing also. It reminded me of a movie I saw on Georgia O’Keefe about a month ago on the Lifetime channel. She lost her vision when she allowed herself to get too immersed in what others wanted, especially the man she loved. Hers was almost a life-long struggle to blend the two but ultimately she couldn’t.
Elle, your You Can challenge is one I think many of us can relate to. I love that you mention the inner drive, since that’s the oh-so-important Compass we all have.
Sounds like you’ve got a great intuition about it all! This was a timely post for me too… thanks!
Kathy, following a dream is never wasted time. One day, you’ll get that degree and celebrate.
Here’s to graduation day!
Cindy, with that sweet little guy under your roof, I imagine that he’s the best distraction ever!
You amaze me, and I often wonder if I could’ve done all that you have during those wonderful years of nurturing a child.
Whatever self-motivation you’ve discovered, it’s working, girl!
Ooh, Mary Jo, I’d love to see that movie!
Your comments about Georgia’s struggle is like the great fight for soul. I imagine many children try to be what their parents expect, and often it’s the beginning of that struggle. Heartbreaking, since I believe everyone is special and unique. To dilute that is very sad to me.
I’m changing gears in my writing, doing something new, and I’m excited. That’s my “You Can”.
Mine is to continue writing. It’s sad, my book isn’t out yet, but I let go of my agent and can’t seem to get another one. Plus, found out my book print run isn’t going to be that high. so i’m very much doubting myself and wondering if I’ll get published again. Sad, but i’m trying to push through it and continue writing because I love it, not to be published. I’m trying to keep that “I can” attitude in mind!
Hey Edie, love the doing something new attitude! And You Can!
Lori, don’t give up! And remember, that doubt monster is one of those paper tigers. I, too, have had some bumps; we all have. If you love writing, that’s all that matters in the big picture.
Sending you a cyber-hug!
Trusting my instincts, and not wavering from them.
Karin, I think those have served you well! Stay the course.
Sorry I didn’t get in on this blog sooner, LaD. Things are piling up around here.
But always admired Amelia. That was one woman before her time. Ya gotta stick to what you know is the right path.
Liz, I totally understand and no worries. And I agree about her being a, “woman before her time.” Excellent comment there.