The Past and Future of this Blog

To you, and to me,

It's so fun for me to look back through posts and drafts cataloged in this blog. I began the blog as a way to collect all of the ideas and interventions I was learning in graduate program. I can remember the feeling of excitement and overwhelm as I tried to keep track of new brain content-- the feeling that I was going to burst with all I was learning.
That feeling still exists in me today, and I'm starting to accept it as part of my way of being in the world. For me there is an urgency to collect information and inspiration. I almost feel like an inspiration junkie-- seeking it out in the books I read, the podcasts I listen to, the conversations I engage in.

There have been many times when I've thought, "I should start a new blog" that focuses more on what I'm currently learning or the kind of therapist I am today. Some of my initial assessment strategies have long been shelved, and in a lot of ways, I've evolved into a therapist who uses many modalities to foster rapport, insight, and healing. That being said, I'm glad that I've stuck with the Art Therapy Catablog. It really has become a record of my personal growth and my changing curiosities. I used to feel guilty for my inconsistent postings. But in this moment, I feel thankful for the ones I did write and share, because together, they create a picture of continued growth, spirit of seeking, and commitment to curiosity.

My intention going forward is to include a wider range of the things I'm learning and the ways in which I'm growing.

May you be inspired by the ideas that live here.


--Sara

Mission Statement: Be the change...

I'm excited to start another school year! August always gives me time to reflect on last year and make plans and goals for the upcoming year.
I also try to get really clear on what values are driving my actions, which usually results in some sort of update to my personal mission statement. Here is what I've come up with for this year. I like it because it's all encompassing, and it sort of clarifies my overarching value of Living Whole-heartedly. It has already helped me to make decisions with intention and to guide my daily efforts during a time of less structure.

Be the Change...
A kinder, more joyful {thankful} place 
where individuals feel:

• inspired to contribute
• to show up authentically
• to create reflections of their uniqueness
• to find and feel belonging
• to pause mindfully and
• acknowledge the gift of living one more day

Where to start >> send notes of thanks; do random acts of kindness; make time and space for mindfulness; CONTRIBUTE WHAT I AM ABLE; teach and model authenticity, kindness, gratitude, health, balance, and compassion for self and others; brighten someone's day; make art and share it.