I posted on social media the other day the following photo. I drew it a while ago to communicate how I felt, at the time, about my ability to be creative through writing. It was a sacred piece to begin with. But as I began to work through and come out of my creative depression, I felt it was time to share it.

After posting it, my mother-in-law (“Thank you Ann!”) commented with the following (approximately):

Self-deception makes us waterproof to the love others are trying to shower on us.

This quote resonated with me so strongly. I have witnessed it with myself, but especially in the last several years with loved ones struggling with depression, self-worth, and other problems. Discussion after discussion I have with them (or others who care); and no matter how encouraging or how many truths we share, the love, encouragement, and truths just seem to slide off. It has baffled me deeply.

It shows that when we feel we have the answer, the right thing to say, it matters little if the person who needs it is completely unwilling to believe. Belief is powerful. It has to come first.

This quote by my mother-in-law turned into a picture in my head immediately. It produced a piece of art in me. I wanted others to see and feel the power of what unbelief, or a lack of faith, can look like. So, here is my most recent artwork: Self-Deception Waterproofing.