Once upon a time, I diapered babies. I taught those babies to talk and walk at an early age. With love, I taught them to laugh and play. Along the way, they learned to use their hands creatively. I taught them to pray.
I scrubbed floors, prepared their school lunches, cooked their dinners, and washed many loads of their clothes. I taught the children they became to act with honor and integrity and I tried not to feel sad when they graduated from grade school or high school and walked away from an Illinois Avenue door. I hoped they each could meet the challenges they faced and remain true to themselves and the goals they had imagined were important.
I taught myself about downtown Louisville’s brick walls. Some brick walls I tuc- pointed, some I tore down and some I built up, so I discovered one could go over, under, around or straight through any brick wall that appeared. That was a life lesson I bring to mind from time to time.
I taught myself how to teach eager persons who wanted to learn the many facets of painting a canvas in oils. Over the years classes met from the east end to the west end of Louisville and were held in Senior Community Centers, a Public Library, Baptist and Presbyterian church areas, Adult Education sessions in Jefferson County Schools, Michael’s Craft Stores, and Hobby Lobby Stores.
Most of my students were adults but some teens attended classes during summers. My youngest student was six and the oldest student was 92 when she began painting. She once said, “ Art is the joy of my life.” She spoke for all of us.
I taught myself the value of surviving outdoor art shows. Undergoing an incredible early experience at St. James Court, I understood the merits of having a durable outdoor display setup
Over the years I perfected my hardware to include racks, pegboards, shelves, tables, chairs, drapery hooks, electric ties, and essential school clips to fasten down any tarp that might be needed to protect a back or front area. I could muster a double booth from my mighty van that held two pop-up tents and lighting for nighttime shows plus an adequate supply of drinking water.
Weights and concrete blocks were quickly added to the necessary list of must-haves. Encouraging customers to hold onto a tent pole in inclement weather brought those weights and blocks to attention status.
Along the way. I have had the great fortune of sharing experiences with individuals who have become dear relatives, friends, and trusted confidants. Their smiles, their warmth, and their shoulders in times of need were treasures that consoled and inspired me to fill my days on earth with courage and determination. I have walked with giants and heroes and thanked them for offering their wealth and trust.