Creating is the ultimate act of hope

Because, sometimes, hope is hard to come by.

I’ve struggled to show up here lately. And on social media. Really, anywhere that isn’t my home with my family. Perhaps you feel the same way. Things are hard right now and will likely become harder. Instead of continuing to not show up, I’m committed to finding other, smaller ways to be here, to connect and create community. So, today, I’m starting with this old (2021) blog post revised to today.

Creating is the ultimate act of hope: In the face of some mighty challenges, I’ve seen this community rise up, support one another, support our communities, stay focused, create brilliant content (or quilts or scrapbooks or paintings or poems), share each other’s brilliant content, and just be here. Present.

At the end of the day, no matter how bad things have gotten or how much worse they could get, remember, the act of creation is generous. It’s hopeful. It’s counting on a future where everyone is healthy and well, where people want to read blogs, learn how to take better care of their pets, connect with others.

Even when it seems like the world’s problems are too great, never, ever, ever lose faith that your work matters. YOU matter. What you put out in the world matters. Even if it feels like no one cares, even if it feels like no one is showing up right now, YOU are showing up. Your work makes a difference in the lives of the people and pets around you. Whether you’re writing blog posts or Instagram captions, journaling, drawing, painting, knitting, or dancing, no matter what, keep creating. It spreads hope.

And we all need a little hope right now.

(A good dog helps, too.)

I’d love to know: How are you showing up for the people and pets in your world? Leave a comment to jump into the discussion.

For being part of this community, I have a free book for you: Positive Reinforcement Training for Dogs of ALL Abilities. It’s chock full of tips, tricks, and advice to help you and your dog work together, no matter your abilities. As someone who has written about dogs for 15+ years, I realized it was about time for a guide that takes into account the differences in human and canine abilities. So, this book is my attempt at making positive reinforcement dog training accessible for all.