made to create

Two years ago, I started my journey in lettering/calligraphy. At first, it was a newfound hobby, but the more I delved into it, the more I began to love it. I had always been fascinated by pretty handwriting and fonts throughout my life, but I had no idea it would become the new trendy thing to do.

Though I love lettering, it does take a lot of time, energy, effort, and some $$ (which I don't think people realize, haha). I really struggled and thought about giving it up for a season or I don't know for how long because it takes a lot of my time. In the world's point of view, it doesn't seem as important as pursuing academics - grades, research, knowledge, etc.

As I headed into the youth winter retreat this past week, I was asking God to renew my passion and purpose for my life. As I was ready to give up on art, God gently reminded me of all the words that had been spoken over my life in middle and high school. Even though I did well in school in secondary education, as people prayed over me, it was never about my academics. Instead, they would ask me questions like - "do you paint?" and I would say "no, I don't paint, but I like to take pictures!" And it's funny how God works because now I love watercolor!

God reminded me that I was made in His image and therefore, I was made to create. It's been quite a journey navigating this part of my life as there isn't a clear-cut road. But I know this. There is a desire in me to design and create - to birth something beautiful and original, whether it's a space, painting, lettering, photography, etc. Creating is what makes me come alive and feel alive. It's certainly not easy to do in the midst of studying and everything else that happens in life, but when I reflect upon it, it's honestly what drives me to do everything else.

And so at the retreat, I invited God to join me on this journey of lettering. I'm not sure where He is taking me with photography, lettering, etc. but I hope that He will be glorified and that people who see my work will be encouraged and inspired to be who God created them to be.

- @gracestype