 Years ago I was given a diagnosis. It came during the time of peonies. I didn't think I would see peony time again . Tom planted more peonies than you could imagine and although we didn't talk about it I could see it was his way of saying "You are going to be OK".
Each year I watch the peonies come up from cracked earth into the cool spring air and they say "I'm back", They will not be denied and they remind me to keep "living forward". What I have learned so far There is always a choice to be made. Choose life. Choose kindness, choose to believe there is more to come. The peonies have taught me this and on days when I am doubtful I paint flowers and listen to Mozart and I know something bigger than me is where the space opens up and healing begins.
7 Comments
Sheryl Trainor
11/11/2016 06:08:36 pm
Beautiful story Jo. It must fill your heart to almost bursting every spring when they bloom.
Jo mackenzie
11/12/2016 01:45:05 pm
Yes, Sheryl, that is why peony time feels like a vow renewal to me. More than anything hint it reminds me to embrace life and love fully. 11/11/2016 11:44:00 pm
Thanks for sharing that and I can feel it in your beautiful paintings❤️
Jo Mackenzie
11/12/2016 01:47:08 pm
Thank you Mary. I have found in recent months reason I paint has nothing to do with paint and paper. It is a way of living fully and in the moment and if I can share that with others that is a very special thing that brings me strength.
Lauren Petit
11/12/2016 10:39:16 am
Twenty-one years ago, the docs said the dreaded words to my husband - "Stage IV." They didn't have much hope for his chances, though they were kind enough NOT to tell him or me that. Well, the old boy is still kicking ... maybe not as well as he'd like, but still kicking all the same.
Henry Mitchell
11/12/2016 01:18:03 pm
Sure glad you two have each other.
Jo Mackenzie
11/12/2016 01:49:26 pm
Lauren...it is a relationship builder for sure. Not just to each other but to life itself. I can tell you have walked that path and although nobody wants to walk it...doing so makes life deeper in color and texture. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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About MeI am a watercolor coach, watercolorist, and author. 
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