What Makes It True

Everyone is posting about being thankful this week. It's expected, right? This is the week that, by national declaration, forces us to focus on the good things in our lives, on the things we feel fortunate about and grateful for. Nothing wrong with that... except that it should be a daily occurance.

But, I'm not here to lecture. Not today.

I'm here to express my gratitude. Not because I want everyone to say, "Aw, look how precious she is!" I want to express it, need to, because as my friend Tim so eloquently posted on my facebook wall, "I think that people that want to do good and actually DO it, should be recognized." Amen, Rev'rn Tim. So, that's what I'm doing.

Unless you've been under a rock for the past year or so, or have never met me, or this is the first time you've stumbled across my blog, you know that I'm in a relationship with a wonderful man named Steve.

The other day, upon returning home from work, he asked me how my day was. I told him my day had been great and shared that I had received two more orders for cards and another request for some other art work, plus I had someone negotiating having me make calendars. He hugged me and said, "That's great. I'm so happy to see you getting to do what you want and love to do. It's wonderful that this is working out for you. You're becoming a busy artist!" I smiled back at him and said, "I couldn't have done it without you."

Steve doesn't take compliments like that well. He's a very humble guy. Typically when I compliment him or thank him for something, I get a faked innocent blink and, "What? I didn't do anything. I don't know what you're talking about." This time I forced him to take the compliment. I blocked his escape until I knew he had heard me. I wanted him to know what his support means to me. Well, really, I know he knows, but I wanted him to acknowledge my gratitude. I wanted to be sure that he understood his impact on my life, not just as a lover and a friend, but as someone who supports me in everything I do.

He does support me in everything I do. Really. This isn't just some smarmy "Barb loves Steve" blather. I want the world to know how much being loved by this man has changed my life. He has consistently and unconditionally provided for me in a way that I never expected from anyone, ever. That has given me the freedom to explore the art world and my place in it. He saved me from the mundane 40 hour work week that always left me too physically tired and emotionally lethargic to want to give into my passion(s). It's not just that he puts a roof over my head. He's also there for me whenever I need anything for my work. He drives me around on supply safaris, making sure I have whatever I need. He comes up with ideas and suggestions that are usually spot on.

So, I'm publicly declaring my thanks to Steve. Thank you for allowing me the freedom to turn my avocation into a vocation. Thank you for the sacrifice, hard work, and love that you've put into making my dream come true. You are a great man, and I am inexpressibly fortunate to share this life with you. I love you.