Art is our way of holding on to that which makes us human. A guide to our inner sould. No matter the medium (I myself choose photography, the art of the written word, and music) art is the window into our mind. Each masterpiece is a glimpse of what the artist has inside, what he or she is thinking, dreaming, or wishing.

Art has brough color to my world. As I grow as an artist, I learn more and more about myself. It astounds me that something so intimately personal can be shared and bring about so many different emotions from those who view or listen to it. I think that art is one of the most important things in my life. Without it, I doubt if I would be able to hold on to my sanity. Every frustration, every emotion, every whim is expressed through my art.

I feel privelaged that people let me see their works of art. It is like getting to know the real person, rather than just the face that the rest of the world is seeing. It is so wonderful, and I think that if we continue to share in each others art, we can learn to grow and accept each other wholly.

What a wonderful topic! Just reflecting on it makes me feel so emotional : )

<3Nico

I took another huge step today towards healing. I've been struggling lately with my endeavor to beat self injury, more than usual. I don't know what triggered this struggle, but I have realized that I don't need to face this thing alone. I looked around me and saw that I have people that depend on me. I have patients in the hospital where I work that need someone to be a beacon of light in their time of need. I have a wonderful family who needs to know that I am okay. I have some close friends who would do anything for me.

While none of these people (with the exception of one friend) know anything about my battle with SI, I saw them and found the strength I needed to talk to my doctor. I sat there so nervous in the doctor's office, waiting for him to come see me. I could barely sit still. Part of me wanted to make a mad dash out of the room and part of me told myself that I would feel better if I stayed. I'm so glad I listened to the voice that told me to stay, because I feel like a great weight has been lifted from me. I told him how I was feeling and how I was having so much trouble doing daily things. I didn't tell him about the SI, but I didn't have to. He was so understanding and so open to listening. He told me to continue seeking counselling at my college and he put me on some medicine to help me get through this.

If anyone is having this problem, please go to your doctor. It's scary, I'm not going to lie, but I wish I had done this 5 years ago when I started having problems. I feel so much better. I feel like I am getting a chance at rebuilding again. A new door has opened for me and it can open for you too!

Much loves and hugs,

<3Nico

Knowledge can be taught in school. The cold hard facts. Not always pretty, and not always helpful, but it is usually the presentation of what is believed to be the truth.

Wisdom is something much deeper. Wisdom has to be learned from experience and growing. This is not to say that only older people are wise. I know several people younger than myself who are much wiser.

<3 Nico