Cori

“As it turns out, the applause isn't as fulfilling as the work. Art is worth every second. So here I am, creators, cheering you on. We need you. We need your stories and craftsmanship and gifts and courage. We need you to prioritize your creativity. We need brave, committed artists to decorate this hurting world with loveliness, to partner with God in making beautiful things. Erase these words-- selfish, frivolous, unimportant-- and replace them with these-- necessary, exquisite, courageous. Bring it forth. The world awaits, dear ones.”
― Jen Hatmaker

“i am reminded of a song that would not make it on the radio in the timeframe of his current state of unrest. it was by a man named louis armstrong, who did not know the same respect and freedoms as his musical counterparts today. instead of writing about the familiarities that surrounded him, like oppression and racism, he sang a song called "(what) a wonderful world.”
― stephen christian, The Orphaned Anything's: Memoir of a Lesser Known

“The expanding balloon in your chest requires a few things. Time, for instance. Creating takes minutes and hours. Living a creative life means making room to dream, craft, compose, produce. It often requires a firm rejection of martyrdom, and I mean that sincerely. The narrative we accept sometimes includes prioritizing all other humans, tasks, and line items to the exclusion of creativity. How dare I? we ask. There are more pressing needs in my life than this artistic expression. I am here to tell you with certainty:”
― Jen Hatmaker, Of Mess and Moxie: Wrangling Delight Out of This Wild and Glorious Life

“If understood, believed, and lived out, God’s plan would naturally place Christians at the epicenter of their communities, like hope magnets, like soft places to fall, like living sanctuaries. We’d be coveted neighbors and trusted advocates, friends to all and enemies of none. Our reputation would precede us, and we would be such a joy to the world.”
― Jen Hatmaker, Of Mess and Moxie: Wrangling Delight Out of This Wild and Glorious Life