One of my favorite sculptures hanging on our living room wall is a piece called “I Am Many,” created by Jacquline Hurlbert.

The artist says that the piece is a reminder of the complexities of our being. Jacquline’s work exposes the weak and fragile parts of ourselves that we have learned to protect, the angry parts of ourselves that sometimes explode with rage, the sad parts that weep for ourselves and our world…and the joyous parts that dance to our inner music.

In the Artist’s Statement that accompanies this sculpture Jacquline writes:

“The figures I create are searching for completion just as we seek resolution and completion for ourselves. True bravery and strength come from the continuing investigation of our weaknesses and our fears.”

And I would add that it takes great courage to come face-to-face with our many selves, and to embrace them with tenderness and compassion.

When I feel pressure to be a certain kind of self that fits with my own or others’ expectations, Jacquline’s work reminds me of my many selves, each of them, from those that are light-hearted to my dark shadow selves, wanting me to acknowledge and accept them for who they are – and to cherish them.

May it also remind you of yours.