Never Give Up: Wisdom from a Six Year Old

When I decided that the mysterious allure of learning to be a metalsmith was too strong to ignore, I found myself facing so many challenges, frustrations and obstacles. “ I thought this was suppose to be fun " I would often say. Learning technique and expressive voice, like getting old, is not for sissies. But what was the largest challenge, the largest hurdle before me? Me!

Over ten years ago I was told by my doctor that my thumbs were not in the condition to continue doing what I loved to do, and earned a living at. She assured me that if I did, I would not be able to pursue my perenial desire to learn new things that involved using my hands. So that ended a three decade long career. I remember thinking that I was going to have to give up my quest to learn metalsmithing. Ten years of perserverance, many times wanting to give up, I realized that that is not in my vocabulary.

One thing my Dad instilled in me was to “ keep my eye on the prize. “ Whatever it was that he saw me struggle with- those were always his words to me. In other words, he was saying “ don’t give up. “

So I decided one day, ( when I was probably engaged in a little self pity about my loss ) that there was no excuse for my attitude. There must have been something that I could make. Most certainly I could learn about metals, if nothing else came of it.

And after ten years of perservering, driven by utter passion and will, I kept my eye on the prize. Studio Joan Marie was launched in 2024. Thank you Popi.

Recently I had the joy of spending time with my great nephew Atlas. My husband was his usual playful self( kids love him) and was wrestling gently with Atlas. But when he asked the little one if he would give in, Atlas exclaimed,( between giggles ) “ never give up!” He repeated it several times. I reflected on his words, the power of them. I now know that at age six, he so wisely already understands what his great-great grandfather instilled in us. Keep your eye on the prize and never give up.

I hope this for all of you.