What do you think about this definition of art? I love it! Why, because so many people don’t think of themselves as artistic. I have been one of them most of my life. How about you? Dewey is pointing out that an authentic expression, and/or individuality of any kind is art! You might be asking what is being authentic or how do I show my individuality?

Some synonyms for authentic are genuine, original, real, and true. Uniqueness, particularity, distinctiveness, and peculiarity are synonymous with individuality. So, I dare you to tell me, you are not an artist! Who cannot see themselves in many of these words?

Sometimes we conform, and do not always show our individuality. Sometimes the environments we were raised in did not welcome individuality. There are also huge social pressures that often make us feel we cannot show our individuality. This often leads us to not being authentic. It’s sad, but true. We don’t feel we can say what’s truthful in some environments or with certain people. We hide parts of ourselves because: we might’ve had to in the past to have survived, or we may have shame preventing us, or are too scared to lose people in our lives if we choose to be more authentic. These are just a few examples of how we don’t feel safe showing our individuality authentically. This is part of why our healing recovery journeys are so important!

We are all artists, and there are parts of us that don’t feel safe to show our artistic expressions of authenticity/individuality. Both are true. It takes being honest with ourselves, and continuing to learn who we are and what we want our lives to look like. I remember being quite lost to myself; I wanted to heal, so I sought support. I needed help from others who could show me how to become empowered and to find those parts of myself again. Day by day, I began to feel safer to be more authentic and show some peculiarities and particularities without shame or fear of even more loss.

I had to be challenged and supported by others to learn to love myself and come back home to myself, so I could gain the courage to let my individuality and authenticity out. I still don’t feel safe in every environment, and I am working on being more authentic and not ashamed of my individuality (all the little peculiarities and particularities that make me—me). I challenge myself, and now I’m challenging YOU to see all the ways in which your unique artistry IS being displayed through every expression of your authenticity and individuality. Celebrate those ways and take courage to explore more. Seek those that help empower you in your healing. Each of us are unique pieces of art that are meant for display. And together we form a wondrous artistic tapestry beyond the wildest of imaginations!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.