Nothing wrong with needing the feather

This painting is part of my collection (We are) Never Broken, but I didn't show it at the art fair last month. There was room for 13 pieces, and I had 15. I chose not to put it up, because it's a bit of an outsider. But I love it, and I want to share it with you.

It shows a blanket fort with a child's hand sticking out, that's holding a stuffed animal.

For me this image represents safety: being warm and covered, with that one little friend that's always there for you.

I have many of those 'little friends' that provide me with comfort, and they are just as important for me as a toy can be for a toddler. Lucky socks, the kitty whiskers that I collect (yes, I'm a crazy cat lady), the pillow I can't sleep without, some painting rituals,...

Have you seen Disney's Dumbo? His friend gives him a feather, telling him it will give him the power to fly. And it works! Dumbo flies. He accidently loses the magic feather. But not the ability to fly…

Of course we don't need our lucky socks, the toy, the special ritual. We can do without. But what's wrong with allowing ourselves that little extra support, even if it's all in our head?