The Paradox of Art

The paradox of art is that all our creativity –

All our vision and plans and attempts

In whichever media best communicates the interior -

Is just a grasping at the unattainable realities

Of beauty, truth, and goodness.

And yet, it is necessary to keep creating

Even though we are confident that our efforts

Will never capture the light that inspired them

Because, without the sight that is the gift of the artist,

Many will stumble and lose their way.

The vocation of an artist is to be constantly frustrated

So that those we are called to serve

Will be guided in their search for higher things

That they may ultimately rest complete

In the union promised by their Creator and ours.

If we receive the honor of this call,

And embrace it fully with humility and grace,

We must make a million daily sacrifices

For the sake of love and truth;

A type of blue martyrdom.