I was driving down the road the other day, and a thought popped into my mind.

It was a pretty clear, concise and passionate thought.

“I’m a f*cking piece of art.”

The thought popped in just as went to turn left, and I felt the energy behind that thought buzz through me.

You see, there was a time I would have never had this thought about myself … let alone rush home to tell you and the whole world about it. I would have spent the rest of my ride telling myself how that was a silly thought and how I’m really not all that great. And, even if I was great, it would be bragging to say it and crass to say it just like it popped into my head.

But, here I am now … saying what I thought.

I am a f*cking piece of art.

And, I’m not talking about mass-produced, Homegoods art (don’t get me wrong … I love me some Homegoods. I’m just not that kind of art).

I am the kind of art that gets unearthed after thousands of years

The kind that sits in a museum waiting to tell a story to passersby.

The kind of art that people gather around in galleries.

I’m that kind of art.

And, I believe with my whole heart, you are that kind of art as well.

And, my friend, that kind of art isn’t for everyone.

Let’s be honest, millions of people flock to look into the eyes of the Mona Lisa each year.

And even more people will go their whole lives with absolutely no interest in seeing her.

Among those who do see her, some will feel profoundly impacted.

Others will say, “Meh … I don’t see what all the fuss is about.”

No matter how people respond to her, she is still a f*cking piece of art.

She is not for everyone, and that’s okay.

I’m not for everyone, and that is okay.

You – my amazing friend – aren’t for everyone. And, that is okay.

You are still art.

You have stories to tell.

Value to add.

Mysteries carried in your heart.

Dreams to turn into realities.

You are a beautiful paradox. A full human being who brings so much to every situation she enters.

You are magnificent.

Your goal in this life isn’t be for everyone (you aren’t that kind of art).

You don’t have to shape-shift, dim your light and squeeze yourself into places, spaces and relationships that aren’t for you.

In other words, please don’t let someone’s inability to see your value hold you back from being art … from living a fulfilled life.

They didn’t offer you the job? They aren’t your people.

He/She/They didn’t ask you out again? Not your people.

Someone doesn’t get how amazing you are as a friend.? Not your people.

Exactly none of it takes away from you being a f*cking piece of art.

And, there is a whole world of people, places, spaces and opportunities looking for someone just like you.

Your only goal is to realize you are art and to fall madly in love with your kind of art.

Believe me, that’s just what good ole’ Mona is doing.

Do you think she gives one single f*ck about those who don’t ‘get’ her or aren’t interested in seeing her.

Nope. She’s too busy being art.