Steps forwardSwinging gently back and forth in an old wooden rocking chair, I take a break from my journal. As I listen to the creaking hum of the tired oak singing a blue song, I think about the art of writing, of painting with my words, and I wonder what hinders my creative practice. A disturbing feeling of unworthiness floats in my consciousness and I wonder why I feel this way. As I wander through my thoughts, a fog envelops me like a blanket, not to comfort me but rather to protect the feelings of inadequacy. I take a deep breath and inhale the reassuring scent of sage from our family room. I continue this process of self-discovery; an old black and white photo sitting on a shelf catches my eye. I see myself as a smiling and confident child, who arouses inner unease. Following the confused whispers in my mind, I return to the day in the moment and reflect on what is happening. In the photo, a small straw hat rests on my light, curly hair. I spot walking boots on my little feet, scuffed from the days of my childhood frolics. In one hand I hold AC...