Vivid Art Space

The Happy Mother (2011) 36″x48″ Acrylic and glue on paper and canvas

One of my favorite books about mothering and taking care of yourself is “Buddhism for Mothers” by Sarah Napthali (2003 Allen & Unwin).  At the start of the book she sketches an image of the ‘Happy Mother’: “Imagine a calm, serene mother, who accepts whatever life presents her with. Unexpected or unwanted events don’t rattle her. She never over-reacts. She’s aware of the times when she lacks wisdom or compassion but doesn’t waste days feeling guilty, she might do better next time. She’s self-aware, but because she has fostered self-love, she is not self-conscious or self-absorbed when she talks to others. Her friends say she is gentle and kind in a genuine way. Her brothers and sisters add that she is clear in her thinking and good at making decisions. She seems to make others feel comfortable, special even, and there’s no shortage of people who love her. Her children delight in her company for she makes them feel important and understood. She’s creative, spontaneous and quick to laugh because no matter what she’s doing, life is play, not work.” (page 9).

I am not this woman. But looking at this painting reminds me of the loving kindness and calm I could find to be.

Dream (2011) 4 panels 24″x36″ Acrylic and glue on paper and canvas