the philosopher lucius seneca once said:
"if one does not know to which port one is sailing,
no wind is favorable".
i remember hearing this quote nearly ten years ago
and only now, for the first
time, i feel like i can fully understand
what it means.
after many years of being partly
directionless, trying out so many things,
getting through personal crises and
following paths i didn't know were mine,
i now feel that I truly know who I want
to be, from deep inside. and i want to
work towards becoming the version of me
i picture so clearly in my inner self.
the very moment i came to realization
i felt the need to write down a guidance,
verbalize my new found sense of direction, call it into existence.
i came up with nine guidelines which form the basis of my manifesto.
these are my lighthouses. these words
will enlighten the way to the harbor,
both as an artist and as a human being.
i will closely rely on these structures to
keep me safe and sane.
money or materialism, shall never be a motive or
motor in my life. it shall never define my being. solely the force of artistic
expression and the need to contribute to
the world, in order to change it for the
better, shall guide me through my existence.
i will embrace imperfection. i will accept
my art and myself with all inherent
flaws and mistakes. they are a part of me
and they are important. and what is
perfection anyway? i won't waste time. i will focus and avoid distractions.
whenever possible, i will finish what i've started. and i will do it myself.
i have the power to learn and accomplish everything i imagine. that does not mean i will neglect
help or teamwork. but diy is key. and i need to stay healthy. good food is crucial.
outdoor activities are important. i will
avoid addiction. i will take care of myself.
and while taking care of myself, i will
always use my privileges for good and
help others, starting by helping children.
they are the future. i will cherish my
family and friends and support artists
and people who are meaningful to me.
and at last ...
i don't try.
