So many of these folks are mistaking shadow for substance… they think Hollywood, CA is the only place worth going and they think that singing is the only way to get there. Their intentions are good (ie, recognizing the “star” potential within); yet their understanding of the adventure is off the mark.

Mythically speaking, the judges in American Idol are akin to all-powerful Gods. These Gods are themselves beyond judgement — they drink ambrosia out of their ruby-red cups as they peer into the essence of our souls. While they can shame and humilate us, they can also grant us passage to the next realm: Hollywood. Is Hollywood merely a city in California? Not at all. It is that place beyond the threshold where our grand adventure just begins. It is the place we go after we’ve proven our initial ability. And no, “singing” is not the only way to get to Hollywood. We all have our own unique abilities; it is up to each of us to recognize these skills and harness them. We must push ourselves to the limit. Nothing but relentless training and the most disciplined practice will deliver us to the treasure that awaits.

Inspired by all of this, I finished this recent painting this past weekend… the red cups are my gateway into Illustration Friday (this is my first entry). There’s a lot that nags me about the painting (most of which I cannot put my finger on), but its a step along the way… and a step I’m glad I took. http://www.fireflygrove.com/graphics/images/012807_threshold.gif