Barbara Mack, US National Whitewater Center
www.usnwc.org
What was your initial dream for your business or lifestyle (or both!)?
I never had an initial dream. I tended to drift along with life, taking change and opportunity when it came. Today my hope is to live and work in a healthy, fun, productive way in harmony with animals, people and the land.
Can you explain the fear and perseverance it took for you to bring your dream to reality?
Sometimes I am afraid of everything, especially that I am not enough, have not done enough, that everyone else has figured “it” out and I don’t have what it takes to get there. Often a moment of grace arrives that melts the fear. It comes in the form of a kind word from a friend like “ You look special today, your face is glowing and your haircut is great”, or a hug from my daughter as she says, “I am so lucky that you are not like the other moms and that you are my mom!” or a deep felt wave of peace flowing from the ground through my body at work that lasts for five to ten minutes. It has no words attached, just a feeling of peace and well being on the cellular level. Moments of grace hold the fear at bay long enough to allow me to take the next step.
Now that you are either working on your dream or living your dream, is it the same vision you originally had or has it changed along the way?
In hindsight, my vision has always been the same, just not on a conscious level. I was living close to it in a way I thought my family and the world wanted. Instead of working as a Human Resources Professional I am an outdoor adventure facilitator. Instead of being health for myself, I am working on my Masters Degree in Alternative Healing. Instead of admiring and collecting art I am creating art. Instead of being serious and focused I am having fun. Instead of having all the answers I am helping people find their own answers.
What has been your biggest challenge in accomplishing your dream?
Believing I am worthy, believing it can work, believing the world will support my choices and journey. Believing I have the inner resources to handle what comes with the path I choose.
What motivates you to keep building, growing or pushing for your dream?
A spiritual hunger that is not fed by being safe. A divine discontent with playing small, settling for safe, not making my contribution to life.
Hello,
Wonder if you can help? We have a beautiful picture painted by Barbara Mack and was wondering if it is you.
Thank you for your reply!
JoAnne
I was going to ask the same question! The painting I have is of a beautifully delicate teacup and saucer… I’d like to find the artist if possible.
Ms. Mack, excuse me for replying to these two nice ladies here–JoAnne, Joy, you are almost certainly looking for Barbara Mock, a popular print and poster artist. Hope that helps.