This was recently brought to my attention on deviantArt:
I am a very cynical person. But obviously still a little optimistic. I love this whole speech on how to become an artist by offering up the most unique commodity you have (yourself), and being persistent and hard-working with no regard for outcome. And his overarching point that you should be an artist only because you love it, and not for recognition - is definitely an ideal I can agree with. I know too many people who pick up writing, music, or art (or, all three) because they are looking to bring meaning and glamour to their lives, and it always feels false and annoying. Do it because you love it and you are unhappy without it. Then, if you are a colossal failure, you at least have an enjoyable pastime to distract you from your misery. }:^)
![[f]](/mt/files/site_images/fb_icon.gif){kind=icon}
![[da]](/mt/files/site_images/da_icon.gif){kind=icon}
MLE, This was great. I loved this.
The other day, I saw a speech that Steve Jobs gave to the graduating class at Stanford in 2005. MLE, I hope you like this as much as I did: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1R-jKKp3NA
One specific part really means a lot to me and ties into the video you posted of this artist giving words of wisdom on staying true to onesself:
“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others opinions drown out your own inner voice, and most important have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” - Steve Jobs
PS: MLE, you said you are a very cynical person. Perhaps, what Carlin said holds true for you:
“Inside every cynical person, there is a disappointed idealist.”
- George Carlin
Thanks, Sean. That man has impressive genius. His tenacity, brilliance, aesthetics, and goddamn VISION are beyond what most of us can ever even aspire. His statements on death - as an atheist, that is both humbling and inspiring to hear. I know I am too cowardly to risk what he advises (carpe diem = no retirement portfolio). But I keep dreaming.
"YOU HAVE TO FIND WHAT YOU LOVE." Amen.