Self

I created this center section for a beveled glass window in a home in Richmond, Virginia, around forty years ago.

I look back on this accomplishment and feel a sense of pride, partly because it was well-managed and still serves me well as an example of what I was capable of back then.

I remember the emotional struggle as I worked through the challenges of creating and building such a piece. Starting with a piece of paper and a couple of number 2s, working and reworking ideas is challenging, especially when the outcome is up to me, with no one else offering guidance and support.

Then, I have to build the window, make patterns, cut glass, assemble, putty, and clean, knowing it’s entirely up to me. I’m responsible for the craftsmanship and finishing in time to cover my cost and hopefully a little extra.

We’re all aware of the power of positive thinking, but how do I sustain it throughout my project?

I do so by constantly monitoring my emotions. To maintain an upbeat frame of mind, I think about what a beautiful object I’m creating, one that will be an accent piece in architecture, I call then my jewels.

When I begin to feel sorry for myself for working so hard, especially when there are so many other things I would rather be doing, I know it’s time for self-management, and I am in charge of making the effort to do so.

From day one, I knew I wanted the freedom to manage myself and to find a balance between work and life’s other joys. I consider this one of my most significant accomplishments.