This past week and the days ahead are loaded with communities that have intersected my life. Moving has enabled me to expand these groups of connections and even overlap them as they grow. Changing locations hasn’t meant I lose out on circles of friendships I’ve forged (which I was afraid of). Discovering new kindred spirits in every locale has made me a better person and clay artist.
Finding and expanding community takes time and some motivation. As the creature of habit that I tend to be, it’s easy to remain in a familiar circle of people and experiences that feels comfortable. But each time I’ve explored a new community (meaning both a physical area and the people living and working there), I have been fortunate to connect with a variety of folks that impact my life in a truly positive way.
As my community has grown, so too has my clay art. The expansion is like hitting the refresh button on your computer. I’m reinvigorated, my creativity flourishes, and I’ve gained an abundance of friends. Finding and broadening community is possible. You just have to seek it out.