Advertisement
Home Life Spirituality and a giraffe
Giraffe
Lin Shanti Goodman makes paper-mache animals like this giraffe as part of her art therapy. Photos courtesy of Lin Shanti Goodman

Spirituality and a giraffe

Creating paper-mache animals for inspiration.

by Lin Shanti Goodman

I am 62 years old, and I’ve had multiple sclerosis for 33 years. It’s been quite a journey.

I’ve been living in an adult nursing home for the past six years. I go to physical therapy several times a week. I also go to art therapy, where I create paper-mache animals. A giraffe I created was featured in an art show at the nursing home, and the art room displays the many dogs I have made. The giraffe and an elephant share space atop my closet in my room. I’ve also made an owl, my spirit animal, and I plan to make a zebra and several other animals.

I’m not religious, but I consider myself a spiritual person. Peace of mind is my priority. I’ve never seen myself as a victim. I’ve always seen myself as a fighter and that has helped get me through all these years with a positive state of mind. I live in the present moment. I hope that’s an inspiration to others.

I am grateful for all the love and support I have. My father is 85, and he is an amazing, positive man. My ex-partner and I still share our love and our lives, and we recently celebrated 41 years of being a family together.

Life is good, and I am so grateful for that.

Lin Shanti Goodman lives in Seattle, Washington.

Tags: Fall 2018

Advertisement