My Uncle loves to tell a story about me as a child.  I was at a family get together, happily playing with my stuffed bunny... when along came one of the other children with an eye on my beloved toy.  My grip tightened until my mother came by saying "Now, Stacey remember to share".  Apparently I looked up, somewhat perplexed and then nodded my head responding "Oh yes, share!" and handed off the prized possession.  I then looked around, tapped my foot and put my hands on my hip,  {at least this is how my uncle likes to tell it} and asked, "Sooo, when you gonna give me back my wabbit?"

 And the lessons of sharing continue... 

 I've always loved the arts and dabbled in various areas ... but for the most part had clung to any of my creative work much like I did as a child...MINE!   Little by little I've loosened the grip...a song here, a poem there, etc.   Most recently, I've started attending a Literary Open Mic and though I went with every intention of just watching and listening, I now read every time and gain feedback, guts, and inspiration I never would have recieved if my work remained tied up in my leather journal.  Now, I'm the one gently urging the "newbies" to take a chance and share something they've brought.   

Although it is tempting to write or create only for ones personal enjoyment, by sharing we not only are letting others into our world... but many times end up inspiring others to step out as well...which could yield a spiral effect allowing potential for great works to be discovered.