Hugging Your Shadow

Fear is the biggest obstacle we encounter in life. It’s personal and never irrational. Fear is the best mechanism of defense we have. So, do not fear fear. Embrace it!

Oftentimes, we get paralyzed by the memory of something or someone who caused us great emotional damage. The fear of that situation follows us everywhere, and its shadow haunts us constantly. That’s why today I would like to dedicate a few words to the fear of our shadow, as Carl Jung called our hidden fears.

The Biggest Artist’s Fear

Any artist person spends hours working on their craft, whether it’s a book, a painting, or a music piece. During that time, their emotions are pouring into the process and the results. Then, a little voice pops into their head: who cares? Oftentimes, artists grow up without the support of their parents. Either due to ignorance, strong beliefs against art, or religious beliefs. Who knows? When this little who cares phrase pops into the head of the artist, fear takes over.

Support Art

There are strong beliefs that art is not a successful career. Did you notice that famous artists like Taylor Swift, Selina Quintanilla, and even Pablo Picasso had their parents’ support when they started their careers? Let me state this clearly: artists need the approval and support from their loved ones. So, if your children incline to art, get involved with them. Take them to classes. Allow them to explore.

Hugging my Shadow

I spent many years of my life believing I wasn’t good enough. It didn’t matter how much my friends told me I was talented. I never believed them. Any time I faced criticism, it hit me with the ice of fear, paralyzing me. Until one day I didn’t care anymore. I say to myself: I do this because I LOVE IT. It was like hugging my shadow until it turned into light. From that point on, I loved the red ink on my manuscript, and putting my art out in the world is my way to express myself. I don’t care if my family thinks it’s not worth it. My shadow and I don’t live in fear anymore.

Au Revoir!

Defending art is my battle for humanity. If you want to join me, follow my journey on this blog, on social media, or join my newsletter (PM me on Facebook or Instagram to add you to my monthly newsletter). I will say au revoir with this beautiful quote by La Agrado, from the Almodóvar movie, “All About My Mother” (1999) —“Because one is more authentic the more one resembles what one has dreamed of oneself.”

Anechy Padron



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Filled with valuable lessons and thrilling moments, The Adventures of Patti and Barci: The City of Cats is an unforgettable read for young animal lovers and adventure seekers.

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