There is something so incredibly sacred about the way we devote ourselves to a craft. When Philip Glass says we should practice an art, be proud of it, and make it proud of us, he is talking about a beautiful, two-way relationship between the creator and the creation. It is not just about the hours spent perfecting a technique or the repetitive motions of a skill; it is about the soul we pour into our work. To be proud of our art means to honor our effort, and to make our art proud of us means to live with such integrity and passion that our work becomes a reflection of our very best selves.

In our everyday lives, we often treat our hobbies or side passions as mere distractions or things we do just to pass the time. We might hide our sketches in a drawer or keep our melodies tucked away because we fear they aren't 'perfect' yet. But the beauty of art lies in the practice, not just the finished product. When we approach our creative pursuits with a sense of dignity, we transform them from simple tasks into a way of being. We start to see that every brushstroke or every line of code is an opportunity to demonstrate our dedication and our heart.

I remember a time when I was feeling quite discouraged with my own little writing projects. I felt like my words were clumsy and lacked the grace I saw in others. I was almost ashamed to share my thoughts, letting my little stories sit lonely in a notebook. But then I realized that by being ashamed, I was actually disrespecting the effort I had put in. I decided to start treating my writing with the respect it deserved. I began to polish my sentences not just for others, but to show my stories that I was a worthy guardian of their meaning. As I grew more disciplined, my writing began to feel more vibrant, as if the stories themselves were standing a little taller because I finally believed in them.

This shift in perspective can change everything about how you approach your passions. Whether you are baking, woodworking, dancing, or coding, try to approach your practice as a partnership. Do not shrink away from your talents because of imperfection. Instead, stand tall in your commitment. Let your dedication be the fuel that makes your art shine.

Today, I want to encourage you to look at that one thing you love to do. Ask yourself if you are showing up for it with pride. If you have been hiding your light, take a small step today to honor your craft. Pick up that instrument or open that sketchbook, and let your practice be a source of immense joy and mutual respect.