I'm proud of my friends.

I have many artistically inclined friends. Being a musician myself, I understand the dilemma of having to provide for oneself vs. pursuing passion. It's awesome when the two meet, but realistically speaking not everyone will find that.

Recently I've had the chance to catch up with a few people I haven't seen in awhile. I got to take a gander at their recent creative pursuits and was mighty impressed. I'm proud of my friends.

I don't think they realize what they hold in their hand. They have something amazing; something that could reach a lot of people. Yet they don't realize the value of what they have produced. They are unsure of their work, because it has yet to reach a lot of people.

What does it mean for something to have value? Does it have to be seen or appreciated by a lot of people to have value, or is it intrinsic?

Artists are often hard on themselves. It's difficult for them to realize the significance of their work. That's why they require so much support.

Much of what I have done to this point was in an effort to help those around me. When I book a show for myself, I try to invite my friends to come and play. I also used to maintain a website where I promoted local artists and concerts. I like to help out where I can, because I understand the struggle.

Sometimes artists just need to know that they are appreciated. They need to know that their work is prized. The least we can do is encourage them in their efforts.