Crazy Heart

Perhaps you saw the movie “Crazy Heart”, a 2009 American drama written and directed by Scott Cooper which centers on a down-and-out country music singer-songwriter (Jeff Bridges) who tries to turn his life around after beginning a relationship with a young journalist.

The movie was okay, but oh, the sound track touches me. I often listen to this soundtrack while painting. The phrase “Pick up your crazy heart and give it one more try” from the song titled “The Weary Kind (Theme from Crazy Heart)” seems to resonate with me. How can just one phrase make you feel so much, to reflect, to touch you, and to be a part of your very being?

Having a crazy heart is not just about failing, but having the courage to keep trying. So many of the people we labeled geniuses would be classified as being a little crazy. How many times did they try before success was a part of them? A crazy heart can give you a sense of freedom, one that is not bound by rules and other people’s opinions, but just crazy enough to try something new or experience emotions yet unfelt.

Yes, the world can be harsh and unforgiving, full of loss, suffering and anguish; but it also holds great beauty. All we need to do is discover what makes us feel whole and happy. What makes us continue on when our heart is weary?

Even the line from the same song “You rolled them sevens with nothing to lose” just means you chose your path in life and it may not always work out. Life would not be life without it struggles, disappointments or pain. Life is not fair so what do you do – pick up Crazy Heart and give it one more try. I believe our heart needs to be crazy and on the loose just enough to keep the light of hope within.

This painting titled “Crazy Heart” is definitely a representation to let yourself go and allow your crazy heart to guide you one more time.

• Size: 48×80 / 80×48

Dare to Feel,

Red