Recently I came across a small sketch I did of a cranky, old pencil I imagined to be like the old-time actor W.C. Fields. I originally drew it in response to the early use of pen-tablet-combos and how digital art was beginning to take over. As I was recollecting on the sketch, I imagined what would that curmudgeonly, stubby pencil give as advice? So ironically, I quickly redrew it on my iPad and jotted down a couple points of wisdom that shocked me how un-curmudgeonly Mr. Pencil sounded.
Make a Mark
Keep writing. Keep drawing. Your potential is not defined by your complexity, but by your willingness to create.
Stay Sharp
A painful process but necessary. Do hard things. Growth often comes through discomfort, and like a pencil, to stay sharp you must continue to meet challenges.
Mistakes Happen
The pencil comes with an eraser for a reason. Embrace the ability to correct, to start over, to learn from missteps. Your errors are not permanent unless you choose not to correct them.
Adapt
Be flexible in your approach, understanding that different moments call for different expressions. A simple tool but capable of bold, sharp lines or gentle, light shading. Learn to work with what you have.
It’s What’s Inside
Like the graphite core, your potential is unrealized until put to paper. You contain stories, dreams, and ideas waiting to be unleashed.
Who would have thought a grumpy, old pencil could sound so hopeful? In its worn-down wisdom, this unlikely sage reminded me that life is about continuous growth, embracing what you have, and never letting your potential remain trapped inside. And unlike W.C., I suggest you stay hydrated.