I read an interesting article in a recent edition of Collide Magazine. It was written by Gary Molander (co-owner of not one but two companies). He writes from his own personal journey as an artist, and says:

"We artists spend a lot of effort critiquing those in authority over us.It’s really the easiest thing to do. But every now and again, it seems like we need to wave the magic wand of criticism over ourselves."

Then he writes about traits he finds to be tendencies in artists, including himself, and how those traits sometimes undermine important relationships. Some interesting quotes from Gary's article...

Most artists live one wrong decision away from disaster. Most people live 9-10 bad choices away from moral and personal ruin. Most people see the line, then move away. Artists see the line and stick their big toe over it, just to see what might happen. There is risk. There is rush. And artists love both.

Artists gossip. Not all, but some. Much of the time, we’re gossiping about the senior pastor who refuses to trust us.

Have you ever worked with a person who doesn’t admit any personal responsibility? They never take the blame for anything. You’ll never hear this person say, “I’m sorry” or “My fault” or “I blew it.” It’s always “her fault” because “he” didn’t get “that thing” to “that leader.” May we never become that person. May we NEVER EVER become that person. And if we’re already that person, may we journal it, pray it, Facebook it, then quit it.

I really enjoyed the article and found much to think about (yes, I have a little bit of artist in me). Also found many of the traits seem universal, not just specific to artists. Read the entire article, then come back and leave a comment below.

I'm curious about what you think: Where did Gary get it right? Where is he wrong?

(HT to Kem for this great find)