Wednesday, May 9, 2012

True Colors

"Professionally it has been a challenging week. Why can't people UNDERSTAND the nature of the work an art model does? It is a TRADITION and a CALLING. The mere fact that I offer you my SOUL, in addition to my body, should alone create an almost 'holy" reverence and respect as we collaborate. I am a vessel for YOUR creativity. Seize the moment of beauty to create something of PASSION or PRESENCE. Do not cheapen the divine by bringing voyeurism, de classe' attitude, and disrespect to the moment. Please DO NOT steal my images, think it is acceptable to have an "open door policy" when I work, and think for ONE MOMENT I am there to "titillate" or be propositioned in the cheapest way imaginable. My work is a testament of WHO I AM. It is my essence and my love. If you cannot understand that, then PLEASE, don't speak to me, let alone book me for your session." - TC
I wrote that today after experiencing an unusually difficult week professionally.  The above mentioned issues all happened within a 48 hr span and one would think that after 10 years in the business, I would be able to move gracefully through all the bullshit and weather the storm.  Lately, I have had experience after experience of seeing situations that have really shown me the true nature of people.  Not all have been good, such as the the ones mentioned above, but some have been surprisingly pleasant and joyful.  Without elaborating on details, I can say that the face of truth in a man's soul cannot be masked.  There are simply people who are just and good and others whose driving force in life is to cheat, manipulate, and bully.  When you get clear and focused on what feels right (and most importantly) what you need to move through life at a healthy, prosperous pace it is easy to walk away from the things that do not serve you.  You simply cannot go back to the old patterns or that way of life that has led you in the dark and confused you for so long.  
Breaking free from chaos is bliss.  There is a serenity that fills you like no other.  We start to accept that we are worthy of peace, love, and grace.  If we allow it in it will not only permeate our space, but our very heart and soul.  When we are illuminated we carry a light within us that we can then pass on to others.  We can lead by example.  I am starting to see daily as I take control of my life that I am slowly, but steadily planting seeds in places that soon will bloom and spring up and become colorful, abundant blossoms.  They then will transform into a beautiful bouquet of truths and suddenly when we take a moment to pause and look back, we see they have become a garden. 
All negative scenarios aside, this is the thought I carry with me as I think of the challenges and then the big picture.  Cyndi Lauper had it right when she said, "I see your true colors shining through.  I see your true colors and that's why I love you. So don't be afraid to let them show. Your true colors are beautiful like a rainbow."
Thank you for the reminder, Miss. Lauper. I concur.










1 comment:

  1. Hello Toni,
    I would really like to learn more about you. You, quite simply, fascinate me. Please reply to justin.simkins@yahoo.com.
    Thanks,
    Justin

    ReplyDelete