16 Comments
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Re's avatar

Crystal, you have always been a generous and kind educator, writer, and artist. I am blessed that your path crossed mine. You have no idea how you have inspired my own journey and for that I am thankful, always. Thank you forever.

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Thank you Re. I’m grateful and inspired by you as well!

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Ann Webb's avatar

I have been traveling and out of connection. I am so sorry that you are going through this. You are such an inspiration to so many and I know this journey is not easy. Thank you for all you do and overcoming life’s challenges. Your authenticity touches my heart on so many levels. I wish I could do more! I’m not always good at communicating but you are always on my mind. Keep on being who you are. Please give Amanda my best!

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

I am ever grateful to have met you and Dennis at encausticamp, however many years ago it’s been now. And ever hopeful that our art paths will cross again. Thank you Ann!

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Indigene Theresa's avatar

Sending a great deal of warmth and healing energy your way! I’m sorry you experienced such hostility in closing down the streaming platform. As an artist, I’m always amazed at how much work behind the scenes and upfront we have to do in order to live. Every adult at some point has to make hard decisions that will affect others, whether it’s financial or familial. You didn’t have to give us an explanation, but you kindly did and I appreciate you. You gave closure, when we often don’t get that. Continue to make choices that will nurture and sustain you and know, you have support from many of us! 🫂🦋🫂

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Thank you Indigene. I so appreciate your affirming words.

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Susanne Helmert's avatar

Wow, I am surprised about the reaction of people. And I am so sorry you had to experience this. I know it’s hard not to take this personal especially if you are in a vulnerable place anyway. Those people are really not worth bothering about (I know, I would have blamed myself for it too). I wish you all the best, Crystal! You are such a strong person and many people look up to you and admire you for that. I know, I do!

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Thank you Susanne!

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Amanda Jolley's avatar

When our folk chorus sang Gentle Arms of Eden by Dave Carter and Tracy Grammer this spring, I saw so many parallels between the lyrics and the poem you shared. Tears seemed to well up as I sang. Maybe I got dust in my eye.

The home referred to here isn't a specific place, but all places on our planet. It's a collective home. It's the ground beneath our feet. It's Ithaka.

Here's the last verse and chorus. The whole song tells a better story from the beginning of time. May Ithaka be found for us all, right beneath our feet.

"Now there's smoke across the harbor, and there's factories on the shore

And the world is ill with greed and will and enterprise of war

But I will lay my burden in the cradle of your grace

And the shining beaches of your love and the sea of your embrace

This is my home, this is my only home

This is the only sacred ground that I have ever known

And should I stray in th dark night alone

Rock me goddess in the gentle arms of eden"

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Well dern, this moved me when you guys sang it, but seeing the lyrics here on the screen along with the words of the poem hit on a deeper level, tears are flowing with gratitude.

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Joan Petranovich's avatar

Personally, I'd rather download courses vs going online so I'm not at all bothered by having to do this. Not sure why others think their convenience is more important than your well-being. We've all had to make hard decisions based on finances, on physical and mental health issues plus all that life throws at us. I hope you find some peace.

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Joan I so appreciate hearing this and am grateful that you've taken time to read and respond today. Thank you 🙏❤️

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sally tibbetts's avatar

It is always good to read your words, even when they reflect your tremendous struggles and attempts to "find a balance". I think we can all identify with these things in various degrees. We don't grow without struggle. I'm hoping for you, that so much of this will resolve itself in only positive ways and I think ultimately that will be the case. Keep on keeping on, Crystal. You still inspire and bring so much creative joy to our lives. You are brave and a "heroine" to so many.

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

Sally your ongoing encouragement has been a balm and a joy. Thank you 🙏❤️

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Shelley's avatar

Dearest Crystal, You have inspired me beyond explanation for years. I am so sorry you have had the experience of any unkind words regarding your very painstaking decision to restructure. Putting oneself first is a lesson I am still learning moment by moment. Thank you for always being your authentic, loving and vulnerable self. I am excited to see what new creations come forth from your beautiful heart. love and peace, Shelley

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Crystal Marie, Artist's avatar

So much gratitude Shelley - thank you ❤️

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