The world is cruel therefore I won’t be

“The world is cruel, therefore I won't be.” This powerful phrase has been a guiding light for me, especially when I pick up my iPad to dive into a drawing session. It's more than just words; it's a philosophy for how I approach life and, particularly, my art. What does it truly mean to live by this statement? To me, it's about making a conscious, deliberate choice every single day. Despite the challenges, the negativity, and the harsh realities we often face, we retain the power to decide how we respond. We can choose empathy, compassion, and creativity rather than mirroring the harshness around us. This quote reminds me that even when "The world is cruel," my own actions and my own spirit don't have to reflect that cruelty. Instead, I can strive to be a source of light, even if it's just through the simple act of creating a drawing. Many people often wonder about the specific origin or "who said it" behind this inspiring phrasing. While it resonates deeply and is often attributed to various sources or simply acknowledged as a powerful sentiment, its exact historical provenance can be elusive. This makes it almost an anonymous mantra of resilience, a universal truth that speaks volumes without a single named author. What matters more than who originally uttered it is the enduring truth and comfort it holds for so many. It touches a core human experience: facing adversity and choosing to rise above it with grace and integrity. For me, art is a perfect embodiment of this sentiment. When I'm drawing, like my recent Inktober deer piece, I'm actively engaged in creating something beautiful and positive. It feels like an act of defiance against the harshness of the world, a moment where I can focus on bringing something gentle and meaningful into existence. It's my personal way of saying, "therefore I won't be" cruel, but rather, I'll be creative, compassionate, and focused on beauty. It’s a truly personal journey, finding peace and purpose through creation. Every line I draw, every color I choose, reflects that inner commitment to choosing kindness and hope. Art becomes a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions, finding calm, and sharing a piece of my soul with the world. This quote isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a heartfelt call to action for our inner selves, pushing us to be the kindness and beauty we wish to see in a world that often feels anything but. And through my art, I genuinely try to live that out every single day, one stroke at a time.