Tag Archives: dailyprompt

Answering Prompt for the Day.

What major historical events do you remember?

The most recent major historical event I remember is the COVID 19 pandemic. Before that it was several protests that turned riotous after several “police brutality” cases that resulted in the perpetrators being found “not guilty” or given lesser charges as punishment for the crimes that were committed.

Before that, there was a major earthquake that caused a few hundred deaths. A couple of major floods that caused some more deaths… I’m beginning to think that all of the historical events that I remember resulted in a multitude of deaths. There was 9/11, when the World Trade  Center collapsed resulting in thousands of death.

Before this, I remember the Berlin wall coming down. Everything else in between these are a blur, or there were so many major events occurring that I barely noticed or was unaware, or was too busy to pay attention. I truly don’t understand the purpose of reminiscing on major events while we are presently making history with current major events happening daily, these will be historical events tomorrow.

In conclusion, everything we’re doing today, will be history tomorrow. Whether we remember them and learn from any mistakes of the past is the question. It has been said throughout the ages that “Those who do not learn from the past, are doomed to repeat it.” …Or something like that so I have heard.

What Strategies do I use to cope with negative feelings?

What strategies do you use to cope with negative feelings?

Sometimes painting can be a therapeutic outlet for dealing with negative feelings. I have some ways that I cope while painting:

I Express Emotions: I allow myself to express my emotions through my artwork. Using colors, shapes, and brushstrokes that reflect how I’m feeling.

“Untitled” Creative Emphasis Art by Linda Dawkins (2023)

I Practice Mindfulness: Focusing on the present moment while I paint. I pay attention to the sensations of the brush on the canvas, the smell of the paint, and the colors on my palette.

I Experiment: I like to try new techniques or materials to distract myself and explore different ways of expressing my emotions.

I Listen to Music or sit in Silence: sometimes I play soothing music on my guitar, piano keyboard or work in silence depending on what helps me concentrate and relax.

I Take Breaks: If I start feeling overwhelmed, I take breaks just to step away from my painting project only to come back to it with a fresh perspective.

I Practice Self-Compassion: I try to be gentle with myself and I acknowledge that it’s okay to feel negative emotions. Then I treat myself with kindness and understanding as I work through them.

I Recite Positive Affirmations: I enjoy incorporating positive affirmations into my painting process to counteract negative thoughts and promote self-esteem. Like “Nice Work Linda!” Or “So AWESOME!”

I Seek Support: If painting alone isn’t enough, I have consider painting with a friend or joining a painting group where I can share my feelings and experiences.

“Untitled” Creative Emphasis Art by Linda Dawkins(2023)

    I try to remember, the goal isn’t necessarily to create a masterpiece, but to use painting as a tool for self-expression and emotional release and this is my basic strategy to cope with negative feelings… finding something constructive to do.