Finding Gratitude in Meaningful Connections - Creativity thrives in the spaces we carve out for it. This past February, I returned to a retreat that first brought a group of us together a year ago—artists, writers, and poets who share a common thread: an artist-in-residence program that shaped us in ways we’re still uncovering.
Gathering again, reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones, we spent time catching up on our creative journeys. What felt different this year was a deep sense of gratitude—for the opportunities we had and the community that has continued to grow from it.
Time away from our daily lives is a rare gift. The simplicity of the days, the massive studio tucked in the woods, the short walk to Lake Michigan—all of it offered space to reflect, to create, and to remember why we do this work. But beyond that, I’m grateful for what has lasted: the friendships, the conversations, the ongoing exchange of ideas and encouragement. A community formed in shared experience, still unfolding.
No matter your path, the power of community and shared experiences is universal. The simple act of knowing there are others out there who understand can make all the difference. Embrace the communities around you and practice gratitude for the connections that uplift and support you.