That's a great question I've been asking myself for the past six months. In February, I started feeling tired, lazy, and drained of the energy that used to fuel my creative days.
Looking for ideas on Pinterest or just observing my surroundings didn't spark the same fire as before. Suddenly, the pencil on the paper wouldn't draw like it used to, and a small detail was no longer enough to ignite the "sacred fire" of inspiration.
I thought maybe an online course or community could reactivate those same circuits as before, but online communities aren't what they used to be. There isn't a great exchange of ideas and sincere interest. Have we really all become so self-centered? I get the impression it's all "me, me, me" and just replying to comments with a "thanks" and an emoji. Where did the real exchanges go? What happened to reciprocity? Why do we want to put ourselves on a pedestal, believing the community that follows us is already one step below us?
So, even with all that, I couldn't find anything that truly made me say, "Okay, I'm signing up for this course." Have you noticed that more and more course platforms no longer offer a real space for the community to connect? Have you noticed that it seems incredibly difficult to interact with fellow students, and you can only praise the host?
The thing I remember most fondly is that 30 years ago, when I was teaching patchwork in person, I created communities. I brought groups of people together, and it was lovely to meet up from time to time. Genuine friendships and equal exchanges were born that still continue today. When you give from the bottom of your heart—even if you have a goal to earn money—what you get back in terms of feelings is priceless. And when you give something of yourself and do it for people like you, it's as if you're receiving it yourself. So, besides the course materials and the technique, you give so much more in sentimental terms.
This made me wonder: what do you think? How can we bring back that sense of real connection and reciprocity in today's online world? How can we create communities where everyone feels like a valuable part of the conversation, not just a follower?
What are your thoughts? I can't wait to read your comments and continue this conversation.
Ps: the above image is a fluffy dust I spot on my floor, it’s an heart shape fluffy dust, love is everywhere, just look for it.
Since next time, xoxo, Jdeebella @soulfulcrane - the creative nest in Italy