how to be an artist

Stay loose
learn to watch snails
plant impossible gardens
invite someone dangerous to tea
make little signs that say "yes" and post them all over your house
make friends with freedom and uncertainty
look forward to dreams
cry during movies
swing as high as you can on a swingset by moonlight
cultivate moods
refuse to be responsible
do it for love
take lots of naps
give money away
do it now
the money will follow
believe in magic
laugh a lot
celebrate every gorgeous moment
take moonbaths
have wild imaginings
transformative dreams
and perfect calm
draw on the walls
read everyday
imagine yourself magic
giggle with children
listen to old people
open up
dive in
be free
bless yourself
drive away fear
play with everything
entertain your inner child
you are innocent
build a fort with blankets
get wet
hug trees (and smell them)
write love letters.

Sark 1990