I'm lying in bed, next to Dearly Beloved, and thinking of another man. It’s four in the morning, snow on the ground (I just went to peer outside, and yep, the white stuff’s falling from the sky.)
As most writers know, when inspiration knocks on the door, you'd better answer, otherwise it simply flies away. Especially as you get older. A few days ago I received a most beautiful and treasured card from a very good friend, pointillism artist Walter J. Smith. He’s more generally known as Wally. |
Wally is almost 88-years-old. He’s a fine arts grad from a while ago, and sees everything in life as art. His pictures are all composed using tiny, painstaking dots. They take a long time to complete. When they're finished he frames them, wraps them carefully, and then they're kept under his bed. He probably could sell them or even prints, but he says he’s not really into that idea as he becomes more mature. Sometimes he swaps them around, and they take turns at being hung on his walls.
Christmas card tradition
He replied:
“So pleased you enjoyed the card.
"This year's greeting is, I think, the third in my series on legends and origins of the things we use to celebrate Christmas.
"I did one on the wreath, poinsettia, twelve days of Christmas and next year it will be on the decorations we use for tree decorations.
"The following year will probably be my finale. All I have to do is to be alive.
"Previous cards were of a religious nature.
"If you think you can use this theme as part of a Christmas story by all means do so with my blessing.”
Everything in his philosophy is quietly and pragmatically upbeat.
His affairs are in order, as is his spotless little apartment, home to him for the last 13 years.
At first I thought there’d be one word that comes to mind when I think about Wally. I could base this entire piece around it.
Gracious. He is gracious, so it would be easy to write a lot about that in regards to him.
Then, more words come to mind.
Positivity. Wally doesn't waste time thinking about things he can't do. He thinks about what he can do. In fact he’s decided to cut some things out of his life before he needs to, and just focus on what he loves to do.
Wisdom. He decided he didn't want the hassle of numerous physicals when it came to driving, so he sold his car for one dollar to his lady love, and happily catches the bus just outside his door if she has other things to do.
Chef. He's a wonderful, gourmet cook in his own right. Maybe he sees it as an extension of his artwork. His food is always meticulously and artistically presented, and absolutely delicious! But this year he’s decided he won't cook any more dinners for guests. He’s done enough.
Kindness. Wally incorporates kindness in all his everyday actions and I would believe, in most of his thoughts. No wonder he is adored by all who meet him.
Here are some samples of the beautiful pointillism work by Walter J. Smith.
Vicki