Can you imagine having a superpower that inspires others to navigate through the fear and inhibitions of their learning journeys as they transform into new versions of themselves?
I recently experienced this firsthand with a new mentor, artist Peggy Zehring during her week-long Abstract Painting workshop in the charming town of LaVeta, Colorado. The experience of being mentored and encouraged by this vivacious woman in her 80’s is part of my preparation for initiation into Elderhood.
Peggy lovingly challenged all of us to abandon intellectual constraints and let our creative process flow from deep emotions and unrestricted energy. With her supportive guidance I was able to relax more fully into a soul guided creative expression, a shift I also intend to embrace more fully in my journey ahead.
Peggy often spoke of her mentor, abstract impressionist Elaine de Kooning, and emphasized the principle of “Truth before beauty.” Her teaching style, mentoring, and Elder Wise Woman role modeling reminded me of the immense power of positivity, encouragement, and support. This holistic power can significantly enhance the well-being and happiness of those we love and serve…and through their empowerment, our world.
Below I offer you my intentions for Peggy’s class, for my life, and for my coaching work with others, with the hope that they will be an inspiration for doing a quick reset on your own intentions.
- Consistent care for this precious human body
- Relax and release mental control
- Surrender to Higher Self guidance
- Be a child of the Universe free to experiment, play and learn
- Detach from projected outcomes
- Tap into the river beneath the river of energy, emotion, free creative energy
- Surrender. Let Go. Relax into the Unknown
- Be present as love in creative movement
Support is essential for making leaps of faith,
as confidence often follows action, not the other way around.
We all need someone who believes in the simple beauty and value of who we are and our potential to achieve whatever is ours to do in this lifetime. Genuine loving encouragement is crucial when we are flooded with the fears and inhibitions that arise at the threshold of change.
The experience with Peggy Zehring as a Wise Woman Elder not only empowered and enriched my artistic journey but also reinforced the importance of mentorship and the transformative power of belief and encouragement.
Six reminders why YOUR efforts to mentor and encourage others can contribute to the creation of a better world.
Everyone is a mentor in some way or another, even children and pets! Mentors come in all ages, shapes and sizes. Mentors matter and Role models matter. Way showers, Guides, Counselors, Teachers, Confidents, Coaches, Advisors, Trail Blazers…Whatever way is your way, to encourage and mentor matters.
By acting on these principles, we naturally contribute to the creation of a more supportive, innovative, and compassionate world. Thank you for all the big and small ways you mentor, encourage and support others.
It’s true, because of YOU, our world is a brighter place!!!!!!!!!!!