I’m grateful for trying to live as an artist, even if it’s little by little. via /r/gratitude

While scrolling through the community, I realized there's something really special that maybe I haven't been valuing as much as I should.

I (28F) went through some challenging moments a few years ago: divorce, anxiety, financial struggles. I'm still trying to manage my anxiety and finances. Back in 2021, I started learning how to draw and thought about working with it. This idea stayed tucked away for 4 years while I was doing some handmade crafts. Eventually, in March of this year, I decided it was finally time to start working with art. So I bought an iPad 7 and an Apple Pencil (which I'm still paying for), and I practiced my digital art until I felt brave enough to start offering commissions. I got a few jobs, and I also create free art for people I feel a strong connection with, and some of them even supported me financially as well.

I'm deeply grateful that I didn't give up, and for the friends and family who helped me believe that I was capable. They helped me understand that when I combine art with empathy, I can bring a little more joy and good emotions into the world. It might sound small or even mediocre not to "dream big", but now I get to do what truly makes me happy — and I'm sooooo grateful for that. I truly hope I never forget how much I'm living something I've been dreaming of for years now. ♥