Thursday, March 14, 2019

Go hard or not at all

I came across this art walking home yesterday afternoon. Yes, it's a violent image, but I can't help but love it. Not because of the banger sending rounds down the street, but because of the message, 'Bang hard or don't bang at all'. It's the perspective of going for it without reservation. Committing oneself fully once they've decided to go. For 48 years I didn't know how to do that. I could fake it pretty well, but inside I knew I was always holding myself back from giving it all. Consequently, it took losing my entire construct to finally break me hard enough to find the courage to allow who I really am to come to the fore. The journey was brutal, but so very worth it. Along the way I shed every element of my life that did not serve me. I got leaner and leaner which released me more and more to fulfill the purpose that was driving me forward. I can't adequately describe the feeling of being free to focus my energy on what I love. It's hilarious to me that all I own in this world fits in this truck, yet I feel incredibly wealthy! The work I do now brings smiles, hugs and legacy. I know beyond any shadow of a doubt that I am on my right path and will do whatever it takes to stay on this road of gifting.

Which brings me back to the message in the graffiti. In everything you are passionate about, give it all you've got. Don't hold back. Be brave and vulnerable. The only regrets I have in my life are the times I held back. Unleash the full power of your potential. Scary? Yes, it is sometimes. You will fall at times. But, you'll get up wiser for it and adjust. Just don't dial it back when you adjust! Embrace the lessons and keep moving toward that horizon.

6 comments:

  1. Awesome! Sometimes, we are so fixed on our destination, we forget to enjoy the ride ..... I bless your journey.

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  2. Very well said , you really should try motivational speeking???

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    1. Gracias Sparkly one! But, I'll stick to photography for now.

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  3. Love your post Rich. I love hearing about how a kid's writing on a wall can speak and touch someone in ways that deepen their conviction. Thanks for sharing. I wrote about my strong feelings about the role of graffiti some time ago. Just wanted to share, I hope its ok to do so here. http://martyromero.me/the-debate-over-graffiti-as-crime-or-art-is-pointless

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    1. So glad you shared this Marty. I couldn't agree more with your perspective on graffiti and street art. I actually find it a great deal more inspiring than most sanctioned public art. I love the passion and soul of it. Thanks for sharing your post!

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