Pat Taub
I was in a week long funk brought on by the starvation in Gaza, procrastination over filing my taxes, and a stalled writing project. As I sat brooding, a little voice whispered that I should visit the Portland Art Museum. As an art lover and modest collector, I often find art museums restorative.
Portland Art Museum, Portland, Maine
Fresh out of other ideas, I obeyed that little voice and made my way to the Portland Art Museum. The special exhibit featured art from the museum’s permanent collection. What a treasure trove: dark moody canvases, early works of well-known Maine artists, whimsical installations and haunting photos. As I was transported to a magical world, I was reminded of the way art can awaken my soul and enliven it.
The Visitation by Susan Daboll
Feeling more positive than I had in a long time, I exited the special exhibit into the spacious lobby, where, in my altered state, I bumped into a long rectangular table, occupied by young children busily sculpting miniature clay figures, while doting parents and grandparents offered encouragement The young artists’ brightly colored constructions put a smile on my face. Little Violet, almost 5, shyly posed for me. Her proud grandmother looked on.
I left the museum with my fun-loving spirit re-engaged. On the next block I stopped a young man dressed head-to-toe in a neon-colored hand-painted ensemble. He seemed surprised when I asked his permission to take his picture. He posed and commented with a big smile, “You made my day.” The feeling was mutual.
As I continued on my way home, I spotted a town house with a sign on its front door that read, “Together We Will See It Through.” The universe was on my side with a welcomed reminder I wasn’t nearly as alone as I thought.
My final destination was my neighborhood market, where my mission was to purchase one of their deliciously decadent chocolate chip cookies. Besides chocolate chip cookies, I’m a fresh flower addict. The front of the store was overflowing with buckets of majestic tulips and spring bouquets: another reason to break out in a smile.
I unlocked my front door feeling de-funked. What did I learn? To get out of my own way, to remember how beautiful art enlivens me. Never to forget if I reset my emotional compass, all sorts of positive experiences are right there in front of me, like the wonder of a small child’s artwork or the big smile offered by an exchange with an eccentric, fun-loving passerby.
Maybe the simple lesson is: when I get locked into a negative mindset, I go about my life with blinders. I had to remember how art transforms me. A trip to the art museum was the opening I desperately needed.
I realize my despair over Gaza coupled with global warming and social injustices will continue to occupy me. There will be days that plunge me into a funk, but I don’t have to stay in the darkness, if I remember to practice soul-awakening experiences. Nor do I want to overlook the uplifting powers of a gratitude practice, a chat with an old friend and more.
When it’s all said and done, I’ve discovered that the very best antidote for moving out of a funk is in the company of like-minded friends, working for peace and holding the people of Gaza deep in our hearts. As long as we live where love is our banner, our funk will not last. Ultimately love for one another and for the planet is the way forward.
