Defining Success

Is it the amount of money? The number of pieces sold? How many people showed up? In my previous life as a fundraiser, these were some of the metrics I used to define the success of an event or fundraising campaign. This past week was an opportunity for me to throw that set of metrics out the window.
Success, for me, arrived in the form of my life partner bending over backwards to help make the show and reception come together, friends unable to attend sending me loving and encouraging notes, hugs and well-wished from others who don't necessarily like or understand my work but like and understand me, and joyful encounters with those who were able to stop by. You see, I learned a long time ago that my level of serenity is in direct proportion to my expectations; Serenity = Acceptance/Expectations. If my expectations are low and my level of acceptance high then I am more serene. That's the gift, the success. But it was only recently that I began to think of this as a practice. Someday I may graduate to the next level where this practice becomes a daily habit.
In the meantime, I am very grateful for the loving kindness shared along the way. Collectors Sunita, Jenna, Ron, Judy, Paul, and Sile. Cheerleaders Kitty, Pamela, Sue, April, Donna, Kathy, Cindy, and Sandy. Show venue and promoters Maple Valley Creative Arts Council and Renata. And most especially my sweetie Ike. Can’t wait to see where this all leads to next!