Hartling And Evelin G. Lindner: An Analysis

In a joint essay written by both Linda M. Hartling and Evelin G. Lindner, they tell the story of a woman named Stacy. Stacy was not only a victim of child abuse, but a human being torn apart by failed relationships and the humiliation of society, and her future seemed dark and unsure. Yet, through her new counselors and therapy, she re-experienced her love of art, and something happened: “As Stacy began building new relational skills, leading her to new relational experiences, she opened herself to a relationship with a teacher who recognized and cultivated her talent. This, combined with her continuing work in counseling, gave Stacy a foothold, not only on a personal passion, but also on the healing and energizing potential of growth-fostering relationships.” (Hartling, Linda M., and Evelin G.
Lindner.) This is just one example of the impact that pursuing creativity and the love one has for it can have on an individual, yet this may not seem that important to some.
Some may argue that, reasonably, any stressed-out or angry individual would show an improvement in behavior if they focused their energy on doing what they love, and it wouldn’t matter if that activity was painting a picture or playing a sport. True, however, there is something different about creative intrigue that sets it apart from athletics, and that one thing could possibly be attention. Sports get lots of attention, as mentioned earlier, but what do they have to do with
Stacy? Maybe sports and athletics are not the culprit when it comes to Stacy, but perhaps she would have fared better throughout childhood if she’d had someone to help her recognize her talent early on, rather than to find it for herself after her life had gone downstream. She grew up in an environment that did not recognize her skill and passion, and she acted out against those who were ignorant of her. This happens all too often, not just to Stacy, and something should be done.