Like the Tibetan Monks who created an intricate, sacred sand mandala prayer and then swept it away, 550 participants made a meaningful, nourishing conference this week in Louisville, Kentucky before scattering back to their homes across the country and around the world.

I’m still savoring and celebrating the 2015 Spiritual Directors International Conference… grateful for the opportunity to hear teachings, teach a workshop twice, and share my art with the community there.  And what an incredible extra blessing and inspiration to watch these artist monks pray in color and chant for four days in the very same room with my exhibit table!  Their persistence to make this impermanent beauty reminded me that I too am invited to offer my best each day, then let it go.

Melanie shares and sells art - Photo by Susan Robbin Etherton

As always, I loved the personal connections and stories from new SDI friends and old.  This year, many people let me know they’re using my art prints in their offices and ministries, as gifts to dear friends, and in their personal prayer spaces.  I can’t convey just how marvelous and encouraging it is to hear that the art serves in all these ways!  The workshops I hosted were a short, shining prayer of collective wisdom and insight too– as we enjoyed art and told stories in a circle that will never happen the same way again.  I was so delighted with those collaborations, I wish I could relive them!  But I get to remember, and let it go… my heart singing with the memory of sweet goodness.

Thanks to all who helped create this conference, and to all who carried art and books home with them.  Your support helps me to keep working!  May you be blessed until we meet again!  –Melanie