My Gifts Rock
Acrylic On Canvas
30” X 30”
****Original Sold - Prints Available****
My Gifts Rock is a Pop Up Theology commission based on a Biblical passage, Nehemiah 5, and a TV segment featuring Oprah Winfrey and the spiritual leader Panache Desai. The purpose of the painting is to remind the viewer that in work and life, it's not about achieving more for the sake of what others think or for their acceptance. Instead, it is a reminder that God loves each and every one of us and gave each of us unique gifts. When we let go of our need for other’s acceptance, we can see the beautiful gifts we have been given and appreciate the positive difference that we can make in the world each and every day
Painting Description & Symbolism:
The central element of the painting is a path. Every day, remember that you have a path to follow. The path is made of your own shoes, a path that you have worked hard on and paved on your own, a path where you are not looking at another’s shoes or wearing a pair that you think someone else wants to see you in. It is a path where you accept and believe in yourself as you are. In other words, it is a place where you feel comfortable and thrive in your OWN shoes.
The path is protected and bordered by faith: faith in yourself and faith in God’s plan and the gifts he has given you. Faith in yourself is depicted by the pinkish red crosses, and faith in God is depicted by the yellow crosses that are intertwined to resemble a flourishing flower, a symbol of how what you offer the world will flourish through your gifts and love when you have this faith. The border of faith, with the greenery and flowers, protects you from negative thoughts, worry, and the need for acceptance represented by the talk and thought bubbles. You know in your heart that what you are is “good enough,” authentic, and perfect to God.
Protecting yourself from negative thoughts and the need for acceptance does not, however, mean that you should not respect and listen to others. As shown through the biblical story in Nehemiah 5, you should continue to listen to others, even if they are critical. Don’t expect others to think how you think. Sometimes there are solutions and ideas outside of your path. Strive to see things as best you can from their perspective and through their eyes, and turn that reflection into action and change. This perspective and reflection are represented by the blue pattern of eye glasses in the background.
The final elements of the painting are the wrapped gift, the love, the star and the brilliant rays. The reflective introspection, as symbolized by the glasses, as well as your faith, will allow you to continue on a path of action where your gifts and love will flourish and your Super Star brilliance will shine through every day. Your true reward is in sharing your gifts and taking action while the world is rewarded daily by your actions.