In life, we all face challenges and difficult moments that test our strength and spirit. These moments can either break us or become the very source of inspiration we need to manifest our best lives. Today, I want to share a powerful story of how the impending loss of my dear friend Cheri's mom, Carolyn Hester, became a wellspring of inspiration, leading me to use my voice through art to celebrate life and share her incredible spirit.
"She's not really eating." Those words had a haunting familiarity for me, as I'd heard a similar refrain only six months prior when my own mother was in hospice care. When you've shared over 35 years of friendship, as Cheri and I had, some things don't require verbalization. We both understood what it meant – Carolyn's decade-long battle with breast cancer was coming to an end. The heaviness of the situation weighed not only on me but even more so on my dear friend Cheri. Their story was like something out of a fairy tale. Carolyn and Cheri were inseparable; they shared every experience, from savoring delectable meals to roaring laughter and spontaneous dance and song. Some nights, the magic encompassed all of the above.
Carolyn's approach to life was extraordinary. She faced cancer with unwavering courage, refusing to let it impede her zest for living. She would often tell Cheri, "Death is part of life, you just have to keep living as long as you can." Her resilience, her unwavering spirit, and her dedication to embracing every day as if it could be her last were qualities that deeply inspired those around her.
Carolyn and I shared a passion for the arts. She had been a long-time follower of my artwork on Instagram, and her consistent comments and support became a driving force behind my artistic endeavors. With her beautiful singing voice, she added an enchanting element to our gatherings. Singing was always on the menu whenever we were together.
During her final months, Carolyn faced a relentless onslaught of medical challenges and discouraging news. Yet, she managed to summon the strength to enjoy a few good days. In her characteristic style, she seized these moments to live fully. She signed up for a singing contest at a local winery, and what happened that evening was nothing short of magical.
The sun setting over the grapevines, a gentle breeze in the air, and laughter all around set the stage for a memorable night. As each contestant took the stage, the room filled with cheers and applause from their supporters. But when Carolyn stepped onto the stage, her radiant smile and infectious energy filled the room. It was a sight to behold. Here was a woman battling cancer, yet her voice resonated with joy, and her energy was palpable. She belted out her song with unmatched enthusiasm, waving her hand gleefully above the audience. The room erupted in celebration. People cheered, clapped, and danced. It was impossible not to be carried away by the moment.
I looked over at Cheri, her eyes filled with tears of pride for her remarkable mother. In that moment, they may have carried the weight of Carolyn's illness, but their hearts were light with the joy of life. The evening left me elated, unable to sleep as I pondered how Carolyn had brought that room to life with her voice. Her courage had manifested a night of pure joy for all of us.
This magical evening left an indelible mark on me. I had been grappling with my own voice and self-expression at the time, and Carolyn's spirit and strength inspired me to use my voice fully. Fueled by this newfound inspiration, I embarked on a creative journey that led me to paint "Mermaid Manifest Voice."
I shared this artwork on my usual platform, and Carolyn's response was heartwarming. She expressed her love for the piece, and I told her that she was the inspiration behind it. Her elation was infectious. As her health continued to decline over the following months, I decided to give her the original painting. It accompanied her in hospice until the very end, offering her solace during her most trying moments. Of all my creations, I am most proud of this piece, for it carries the essence of Carolyn's spirit within it. It now lives with Carolyn’s daughter Cheri, further carrying her spirit.
I share this story today with the hope of inspiring others, just as Carolyn inspired me. It feels particularly important to share during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My art is a medium to convey Carolyn's enduring spirit, and I invite the world to experience it. Please visit gatheredearthcreative.com and search through Earthy Products to explore more of Carolyn's art. As always, your feedback is always welcome. Together, let's manifest more positive days ahead, drawing inspiration from those who showed us the way.
Love and Peace,
Justine DePalma
Owner, Gathered Earth Creative