Refrain from the Identical, the Book: Excerpts, Artwork, and Feedback

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Refrain from the Identical, the Book: Excerpts, Artwork, and Feedback

I've decided to feature some excerpts, artwork, and feedback from my book, Refrain from the Identical: Insight and Inspiration for Creative Eclectics. The following excerpts are from Chapter 1:

" Some people are blankets made out of one solid piece of material, while others are quilts with a whole bunch of pieces sewn together." -Andrea Luna

A Tendency towards Multiplicity

We creative types definitely have a free spirit; a child inside eager to explore. We flit and flutter from one interesting activity to the next without a care in the world until someone tells us we are "unfocused" or "scattered." It wounds our heart and erodes our confidence when a loved one winces at our latest great idea and yawns, "You make me tired." Self-doubt creeps in like the Vikings raiding northern European villages at night. We begin to think, "There must be something wrong with me!" Desires that once delighted us now seem to pull us in a dozen different directions.

My sister, Gina M. Wilson, created the book's pen and ink sketches.

An enthusiastic and grateful reader, Donna Mast, sent me the following comment after reading Chapter 1:

"I am learning that I am an artistic eclectic, and I didn't know that until I started to read Refrain from the Identical. I used to get frustrated with myself as I dabbled with different creative art projects and at times felt guilty that I didn't hone in on one thing. This book is so freeing. You have so much to give to those of us who need to be encouraged in the busyness of life to let our creativity soar!

I try to read a few pages more when I get a chance. Sunday I spent a few hours reading and couldn't put your book down! I want to pass it on or buy several copies to hand out to others that I know will glean and be encouraged and inspired by your book, too! You are blessing many on your journey through life!! I am so grateful that God brought our paths together again…You are a blessing to me! – Donna"