October Encouragement
Looking for Brighter Autumn Hues
On this warm first day of October, enjoying a touch of autumn in the air, giving in to warm hues and the edge of summer slipping into fall, I contemplate the events around me. The days already grow shorter after the autumnal equinox
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Thousands of miles away, the world is in chaos. While I do not like to dwell on devastation, division and disappointment in a newsletter titled “Encouragement Only,” reassurance that does not respond to reality is not true encouragement.
This has been quite the week!
We are still witnessing the ruin caused by Hurricane Helene. With friends and family in the afflicted area—I will not deny concern. No words can change what has happened. We pray for speedy aid—practical help for so many and the comfort of knowing the heart of the nation is with them.
We acknowledge the turmoil and hostility in other parts of the world and the critical election in the US.
On Friday, the world lost Dame Maggie Smith. Few actors have commanded the attention of so many for so long with her brilliant wit and presence. Many adults are not familiar with the early years of her nearly seven decade stage and screen career - at the Oxford Playhouse, the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company and on Broadway. Her performances captured generations. And have you seen her comic duos with Carol Burnett?? At the age of 60, when the careers of many fade, she enchanted another audience as Professor McGonagall, and yet again, in Masterpiece Theatre’s Downton Abbey as Violet Crawley. An impeccable symbol of what acting can be. Many of you know firsthand the joy of live theatre and its benefits for all who participate.
So…despite what we may be tempted to believe
I have to believe that the human spirit is alive and strong.
I have to believe that our culture strives for beauty and survival.
I have to believe that compassion seeks the strengthening of friendships forged long ago.
I have to believe that our faith will ultimately lead us to the search for good and kindness.
I have to believe, no matter what happens in the next 34 days, we can gather with our families and friends over holiday meals, and in places of worship and at celebratory events to foster healthy and beautiful traditions.
I have to believe that artists, writers, playwrights, will continue to pursue truth and beauty.
I have to believe artists and athletes will continue to achieve in their fields and scientists will continue to seek answers for troubling conditions.
And I have to believe that we Pollyannas of the world can keep a small torch burning and look ultimately to the creative source that gave us life.
I have to believe that you believe some of these things, too.
Looking for Brighter Autumn Hues
My Solo Show in the Cozy Corner Gallery at Soul Connection continues through October 10th.
You can find my original paintings, prints and cards in the Mojave Desert at Cactus Mart in Morongo Valley, Rainbow Stew in Yucca Valley, and Soul Connection in Joshua Tree.
I love sharing my France Travel sketches (and promise more Paris tips and experiences in my next Substack Newsletter). My France Sketchbook Calendars 2025 are available at Rainbow Stew, French Corner Café in Palm Desert and online at my Etsy Shop – ArtbyJanis Commentz French Press and Mojave Inspiration. The Gift giving season begins NOW!
A flock of raven cards (9 different versions) are available at the shop also.
And a free gift - Raven Card that you can download, print, cut and fold is available here (also on my website through October)
I invite you to read my last Substack letter which tells more about my solo art show at Soul Connection in Joshua Tree and our community’ s well-known Hwy 62 Open Studio Art Tours.
And I wish to acknowledge the incredible life of our 39th President of the United States, President Jimmy Carter, on his 100th birthday today! (He happens to share the birthday of someone close to me!)
What an outstanding role model he has been for so many years! I think he will be remembered as one of the most revered presidents during our time…true to his faith, conscience, family and helping the poor and humanity everywhere. He still lives in his modest Georgia home, which is worth less than some of the Secret Service vehicles which are parked outside! We miss dear Rosalynn and we salute you, President Carter!
President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn in their favorite double rocking chair (photo credit: The Carter Center)
Wishing you a memorable and rewarding autumn. I am always excited to hear about new creative hobbies—such as restoring an old bicycle, developing a photography skill (pun intended), and honing long forgotten interests. May your journey bring you new joy!
Inspired by all of you,
Let me leave you with a little duo dynamite from Carol Burnett and Maggie Smith
I love the photo on your morning walk! Yes, these next days...