The first few weeks of Aligned Enchantment being published have felt like a paradox. It is as if nothing has changed and everything has changed (or is in the process of changing).
Rachel receiving her first author copy of Aligned Enchantment—an indie author and publisher’s greatest moment!
I still follow the same routines and patterns throughout this process, from creating to publishing and now releasing it. Basically, it boils down to taking inspired action in the nooks and crannies of my day.
Yet, as the reality of being a published author and artist sinks in, it feels like something is shifting as this dream becomes a reality. I sense that as Aligned Enchantment is released into the world, it will take on a life of its own as folks get to experience the journal and add their own wisdom from the reflective prompts.
Throughout this entire project, it’s been fascinating to watch my thought patterns around this process. As it was published, folks were awaiting their copies, and I wondered if the pages filled with my ordinary days and little paintings would resonate.
However, I’ve been overwhelmed with an outpouring of support and tears of gratitude when I read responses like these from early readers:
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“The book is absolutely beautiful! I completed day 1, and it left me in happy tears….The journal feels so warm and safe. What a true treasure!” – SK
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“I got mine, and I teared up just reading and reflecting on day 1. It’s so beautiful I have to get over that and write in it!” – SC
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“My copy arrived today. I am amazed! Artwork and poetry woven with prompts that spark writing. Rachel created a journal that feeds my soul.” – BP
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I’ve been pondering so, so many things just since cracking it open a couple days ago. So many heart-opening ways to explore and create meaningful alignment with my own sacred purpose.” – LF
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“I received the journal today. It is beautiful and engaging. I can feel the love and care falling off the pages and into my heart. I love the imagery and how you have pulled so many resources together. You have come at enchantment from all sides and it is glorious.” – SC
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“I love your day 13, “Beloved” and dedication to Grandma! It brought tears of joy to my eyes – I love it so much. You are a great storyteller, amazing painter/artist, and poet. You remind me so much of Grandma – she saw beauty in everything and could make a poem or song out of anything that she enjoyed. She is greatly missed” – JN
Rachel’s book, Aligned Enchantment, has been available for two weeks on Amazon and other retailers.
I hope this journal feels safe and warm to everyone who holds it.
I believe it will reach and resonate with people who are ready to explore their own inner wisdom which will bring about heart-opening, soul-filling insights. I know the love and care within this project was a collective effort as so many people unknowingly inspired words and images through our conversations.
Rachel’s goal was to complete 100 Days of tiny watercolors. She had no inkling that journey would become a published journal!
Last but certainly not least, I cannot think of a higher honor than to be even the slightest reflection of my Grandma Frances’s love and joy.
This past week, I’ve also been reflecting a lot about the power of creativity.
I believe that even though art is often made in solitude, it is a healing form of connection. I believe that we are all made to be makers and created to be creative. However, I wonder about the barriers to accessing creativity.
Part of it, I think, is that our Western culture shuts down creativity and imagination in childhood under the guise of “realistic expectations” but then expects innovation and excellence for the sake of productivity in professional settings.
It just doesn’t add up. I’m grateful for the teachers and role models that keep creative possibilities alive for children and adults alike. This journal resonates with people because it’s an example of openness to enchantment and inspiration, an invitation back to imagination and intuition, and permission for carefree creativity and authenticity.
It is the sake of creating for no purpose other than pleasure. That is how this project started and is continuing to unfold. That just might be the magic of it all.
The lessons learned in the last few weeks have mirrored the consistent reminders throughout this project:
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Follow intuition and sparks of inspiration
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Trust the unfolding and let go of a specific outcome
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Try new things and make space for messes and mistakes. Sometimes, a ‘mistake’ turns out better than you imagine (‘Happy little accidents,” as Bob Ross would say.)
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Play, exercise imagination, and practice perspective-taking
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Hone in on what resonates. Images, colors, and words begin to stand out when you’re paying attention.
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Observe thoughts and behaviors around creativity and tangibly work with fears and tired storylines: Who am I to do this? Am I good enough? Do I have permission to do this?
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Practice vulnerability by sharing something that feels so personal yet is universal.
These are such different ways of being that are so counter to our Western culture that I know any moments of my own worry or discomfort are actually just the growing pains that accompany transformation.
I’m continuing to trust the process and am excited to see what emerges.
Finally, I cannot say thank you enough to everyone who has supported me along this process, who are buying Aligned Enchantment for themselves and sharing them as gifts for others. I’m deeply grateful for the generosity and collective energy around this creative endeavor.
Please join me in celebrating the journey of creating and publishing Aligned Enchantment. Bring your friends, enjoy good company, and have the opportunity to get crafty! Bring your journal or purchase a copy at the event to get signed.
What: Aligned Enchantment Launch Party
When: Saturday, May 4th, 5-8 pm
Where: Clyde Iron Works (upper level)
2920 W Michigan St, Duluth, MN 55806
Who: All are welcome!
Please RSVP in the event link or by emailing hello@artofpresence.org
Aligned Enchantment Book Launch Event:
https://www.facebook.com/share/HR93TBngQjBFWs24/?mibextid=9l3rBW
Please reach out with any questions.
Thank you!
Rachel
Me. Heather N. Wilde. An indie author and publisher at Hezzie Mae.
So, dear reader, take a deep breath, silence that inner critic, and embrace the truth:
You are worthy. Of love. Of happiness. As you are right now, today. Always.
Heather N. Wilde
Read similar posts about creativity and authoring on Hezzie Mae’s Blog.
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I am a writer, educator, indie publisher, artist, and trauma survivor. Visit HezzieMae.com for a paradigm shift in author mentoring, publishing, and creative, healthy living.
Purchase Aligned Enchantment by Rachel Gilbertson (March 2024).
Purchase Tumbled: A Memoir of Perseverance, Personal Growth & Magical Transformation by Heather Wilde (Feb 2023).
Purchase Pig Tales & Popcorn: Patricia’s Memoir by Heather Wilde and Pat Passero (July 2023).
Purchase Suck Less at Love: She Said, He Said Advice on Relationships by Cyndi Lewis (Jan 2024).