Dear Artist,

Hope you are doing well!

I woke up today, looked into the mirror and realised that I have known you for more than 40 years now.

Over the years,

I know that you can smile even when you experience pain;

I know that you find hope even in the very grim situations and challenging times of life;

I know that you try to keep the child in you alive and active always;

I know that you always look for positive solutions for your problems as well as for others;

I know that you are always content when you see your loved ones happy;

I know that you always put others first over your own self.

But,

I want you to know that it’s okay to cry when you experience pain;

It’s okay to find alternatives during challenging times;

It’s okay to be lazy at times unless it becomes your habit;

It’s okay to be a little selfish and focus only on your work;

It’s okay to think only about what makes you happy;

It’s okay to put yourself first.

Because,

Only if you stop undermining your self-worth and practice self love will the artist within you bloom fully and will you be able to spread more love to all those who look up to you and your work.

Do spend a little time with yourself everyday doing what you love doing the most; to rekindle your senses and to always remain high spirited and at the pinnacle in your chosen career.

Tons of Love,

Your alter ego

Pratima Jaidev

// This letter has been penned by Pratima Jaidev for the contest “The Artist Within Me” which won her a Jury Special Mention //