My journey over the past decade has transformed my perspective on life. There was a time in my past when I would do anything to avoid pain and suffering and reject and suppress parts of me that I was ashamed of. That episode left me disoriented, disintegrated, and in despair. Running away from my pain did not bring me peace. Instead, I dug a hole, which became an abyss that swallowed me up! But all things belong and ‘have the potential of calling forth in us a deeper response to our life in God’. In the darkness of the abyss, I cried out to God, who reached down to save me. That Divine encounter began my interior journey of embracing all parts of me and toward integration and wholeness.
I have found particular inspiration in the Japanese art of Kintsugi and the craftsmanship of mosaics. In Kintsugi, a broken vessel is restored and highlighted with gold along its cracks. Its essence remains, but its appearance is more beautiful. Broken and beautiful. I am that vessel, still in the process of being lovingly restored by God. My life is also a mosaic in progress; every life experience and person I meet is a piece that creates a pattern in my life. My Gracious God is the one who holds each piece together, like the plaster that binds the mosaics. Every piece belongs and has a place. As a spiritual director, I am constantly reminded of how every piece of life experience comes together in the bigger scheme of the universe. Just like mosaics, all the pieces come together to form a piece of artwork. Nothing is ever wasted.
I am mostly a homebody and a cheerleader for my family of 4: my husband of 36 years and three adult children. My indulgences include watching thrillers, K-dramas (specially curated ones), and a Korean travel reality show called 2 Days, 1 Night while munching on Calbee prawn crackers. I also dabble in art. You might also catch me at cafes with a good cup of coffee, people-watching, or just dreaming.
I hope the sacred works in this art gallery resonate with you!
Thank you for dropping in.