“Love that is not madness… is not Love.”

No this is NOT my quote. No it is not a universal expression of “Love”. Yes, it applies to a certain context of love.. please do not over analyze or try to “one-up” my use of it. I have included it to highlight the difference between following the heart and keeping it wide open, versus remaining closed and following the rational, calculating side of the mind.  Sometimes I feel like I lead too much with my heart.. “on the sleeve”…  but maybe not…

Point being, I feel completely in Love…not only with my art, but also another person (romantically, and universally for that matter)…  and although there is much uncertainty, it feels amazing.. but along with an open heart there is a slightly torturous vulnerability.. some are quick to take advantage of my vulnerability.  But I don’t care anymore! that is their problem, not mine… I would rather lead with an honest, open heart, than remain closed and untouched like many people out there..

This art is my life and passion, and i refuse to make concessions of heArt to please close-minded people.. This image is included to highlight this madness.. the uncontrollable throbbing of passion and “insanity” is responsible for such precarious arrangements in life.. But this is all part of the thrill.  the priceless nature of my art is in the FEELING and surprise it spurs with every realization of extreme balance.  vulnerable to the slightest wind, yet standing proud in its own divinity is something rarely experienced by the masses (unfortunately). Just imagine what the world would be like if every person could open up and break through their barriers of fear… the barriers imposed by mind and ego.. I fall victim to my own worries at times.  but then I experience an extreme love that NO-ONE can break.  because I’ve learned to handle the risk of collapse. Or at least i hope..

I could DIE tomorrow and lose EVERYTHING I’ve been hoping for in my future.. but this hope is senseless if i am not engaged in the moment with all heart and passion.

Keeping an open heart is also about pushing the limits of our own creation.  There must be a contentment with potential loss in order to move forward and GROW.  highlighted here is the practice of pushing limits.  One step at a time. Few successes happen instantly.  by starting small, we can gradually realize a fuller potential.. although there is the uncertainty principle to all existence.. LOVE feels fucking amazing!! it is never too late crack open that shell.  if you don’t, death will. <3

5 Responses
  1. Lillian

    Love your work. I was doing some rock stacking – never tried before, so VERY elementary, and someone remembered your work and sent me your web address. I’ve been thrilled with what I’ve seen so far. Love your work and your heart as expressed in your commentary:
    Keeping an open heart is also about pushing the limits of our own creation. There must be a contentment with potential loss in order to move forward and GROW. highlighted here is the practice of pushing limits. One step at a time. Few successes happen instantly. by starting small, we can gradually realize a fuller potential..
    I write quotes on my classroom whiteboard. I plan to quote parts of your comment above and show my students your work. Awesome. Can’t wait to see their reactions.

    Hoping you are ok – been reading about the flooding of Boulder Creek. Wonder how it looks compared to what I’ve seen in your photos.

  2. Jeni Driver

    Mike,
    You are awesome. You class literally opened a new universes for me and now I’m so grateful to read your blogs. Did you notice everybody in your class was blissed out, filled with wonder and joy. You are a tremendous blessing to this world. Thank you for this open heart and all you are gifting the world. You’ve helped me remember magic. We shall play again! Much Love, Jeni

    1. Awesome!!! glad you enjoyed it :D I noticed your stacks stayed up for at least a few weeks after the class.. :) also, very grateful for your feedback :) seemed to be a great learning experience for EVERYONE, self included :)

  3. Michael, I love your words! Always so inspiring… I feel this same way towards Truth… I have a passion/love for Truth. Have since childhood. It’s what propels me on in life. I am a mad woman for Truth! Divine Madness. Maybe in this passion the heart will finally crack open to the Ultimate Truth – Love…

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