The Jam Jar of Tiny Dancers

In the spirit of International Women's Day, I want to tell you about a unique lesson I learned from the most influential woman in my life – my mom. 
 
Once upon a time in a conversation with my Mom I was working out my confusion about what direction to go with my work and my creative efforts. I was having trouble trusting my gut and taking action. Everything I REALLY wanted to do seemed like a leap of faith and far from conventional choices. 
 
Instead of telling me what to do, my Mom told me about something she had recently purchased at an antique mall. She said she happened upon a small glass jam jar that someone had transformed into an unusual piece of art. 
 
The lid of the jar was decorated with three tiny standing ballerinas (vintage cake toppers) and inside the jar lived more tiny dancers with tiaras. This unique creation called to her and she HAD to have it. It reminded her of her birthday cakes when she was little, and the jar brought forth JOY in her. 

She pointed out to me that somewhere, someone had the courage to create what was uniquely their vision (and as you can see, maybe it's not going to call to everyone : ) But an artist sat down and glued tiny dancers to lids, never knowing where the work would end up or how much joy it would bring.  
 
My Mom encouraged me to stop overthinking and “put what you love out into the world and someone will love it too, even if it’s a jam jar of tiny dancers.” 
 
This entire story sticks with me as a two-word lesson I’ve learned from my mom – “Stay weird.” Meaning, stay true to what you feel called to do and create, and even when others don’t get it, some will, and those are the people you’re here to serve. 
 
Crazy Grateful feels a little like my jam jar of tiny dancers, and I’m so thankful that you stumbled upon it. And I’m especially grateful to my Mom for this life-long lesson. Thanks, Mom!