Commitment Work & Joy

It is axiomatic that when we commit to an outcome, the Universe begins moving energies, people, and events in support of that commitment. Then comes the next step of doing the work, taking whatever steps we can take, whether small or giant, “doing what we can do, with what we have, from where we are,” (to quote Mary Morrissey). And that’s often when the obstacles crop up, demanding consistent, focused action and practice. Ultimately, the reward is the joy we feel, both during the process and with the attainment of the goal. This series started as a contribution to the fundraising efforts of Penn State’s Essence of Joy choirs, under the direction of Dr. Anthony Thomas Leach. Commitment is an idea that the members of the Essence of Joy choirs understand and engage with on a profound level. They are committed to creating beauty and sharing the transcendent joy of a rich choral tradition with as wide an audience as possible. And they have committed to a tour in Hawaii next spring. But commitment, work, and joy are themes that have resonated throughout history. There are simply too many examples to list them all, and no doubt you have experienced this phenomenon in your own life. These paintings are a celebration of this process, and the seemingly magical results.