Can a blind person sketch?

Two things I’ve loved to do since I was a child…well, actually three. Read, write stories, and draw. I sketched constantly and continued to do so for years. When I became legally blind (I have no central vision in either eye and see 20/400 with my peripheral), I stopped sketching. I didn’t think I could do it.

But as I have adapted to my new normal, I’ve learned to use aids to help me do what I love, so I began to sketch using nothing more than my peripheral vision and a very bright light shining directly on the sketch pad. The result was this sketch of a horse.

I’m just a hobby artist. I will never make money from my drawings or paintings, so that is not the purpose of this post. The purpose is to encourage you, my readers, to find ways to do what you love. Sure, there may be some things you can’t do no matter what your mindset, but you may be able to do more than you believe you can.

This morning I listened to a podcast by Max Lucado called “Encouraging Word.” He spoke about looking back at your childhood to discover what your passions are now. What your strengths were then may be your strengths now. We are unique individuals who bring multiple gifts and talents to the world if we choose to use them.

What interest, talent, or gift are you ignoring? Do you feel as though something is missing from your life because you are not using it?

I allowed a defeatist attitude overtake me. That attitude is gone, and I’m now focused on doing what I can while I can. Life is too short to waste time and talent. If you’re doing that, stop.

Life has taught me some difficult lessons, and it’s still teaching me. I’m sharing what I’ve learned in the hopes it will help you in case you are doing what I did, giving up.

Blessings to all of you!