In my painting, Ponder, I talk about how self-reflection

can help us better understand ourselves and make us more self-aware,

and when we do, it helps us walk a clearer path in life towards what we want.

This is because we examine things such as our values and purpose.

When we are clearer on our values, we know what we stand for and what we won't stand for,

and this in turn eventually guides the decisions we make and actions we take.

And if you never reflect, you may miss the patterns of your decisions and may never see your purpose fulfilled;

maybe you start but never finish projects, maybe you let others make decisions for you, maybe you always stay in your comfort zone, etc.

Knowing your purpose, you'll find ways to face your fears in order to head on your path to self-fulfillment.

If you don't have a path in mind, then introspection can help.

If you do have a path in mind, they'll most definitely be detours, but you'll never overcome them (get back on track) if you don't rise up and start walking.

This painting, Rise, the 3rd in the “Journey” collection, represents the strength you have to start on your path after you've done some self-reflection and have a better understanding of who you are and what you want in life,

especially after a setback or if you're feeling lost.

With more self-awareness comes more clarity on decisions because you are more connected to your self and your intuition.

Rise up and trust yourself.

• 24” x 36”

• Acrylic paint, Foam Modeling Clay, Digital

• Acid-free, PH-neutral, poly-cotton base

• 20.5 mil (0.5 mm) thick canvas

• Canvas fabric weight: 13.9 oz/yd² (470 g/m²)

• Mounting brackets included

• Hand-glued solid wood stretcher bars

• 1.5″ (3.81 cm) deep