I Met SARK! (2004)

By Chris Dunmire

Yesterday I attended my first book signing ever. It was actually a three-hour event combining a workshop and book signing (with chocolate cake!) featuring author/artist SARK (Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy); hosted at the Transitions Book Store in Chicago, Illinois.

SARK is promoting her new book, Make Your Creative Dreams REAL. The workshop incorporated ideas and exercises from the book, and included other fun activities she created specifically for the workshop. The group was energized with music, letter writing, paper throwing, dream book making, and listening. Listening to a creativity icon with 12 published books stand before us remarking that despite all she's accomplished, she's a recovering procrastinator and perfectionist. And that she still has dreams that SHE'S working on. Even ones "that aren't doing so well."

My favorite quote from the night:

"If you build it, it might fall down (and that's okay)." — SARK

It was an awesome evening. And not just because I was in the company of a famous author who inspires millions of people to Succulent Wild Womanhood or creative destinies. SARK is down to earth. Witty. Fun. Imperfect.

I also experienced the event with two of the dearest people in my life, and met several new people along the way. The night ended with the most breathtaking view: a bright round moon shining down over the city of Chicago.

The Book Signing

As a revealed participant of SARK's Virtual MMB, I received a little more attention than one of my companions when I stood in front of her for the book signing. After exchanging pleasantries, our conversation went something like this:

SARK: Oh, I read your stuff all the time! (Referring to my MMB postings.)

ME: Really? I read YOUR stuff too!

(we share laughs)

SARK: Would you like me to sign it to your real name, your MMB name, or both?

ME: Both, please, if it doesn't cost extra.

(more laughs)

As SARK signed the page, I commented on the cool TO: space she designed just for signing (or gifting). She acknowledged, trying not to misspell "inimitable." I told her how much I enjoyed the workshop, and began to feel emotion welling up from my heart. I suddenly felt inadequate.

With a line of people behind me a mile long, there was no way I could convey in a few moments the impact her work had made on my life and my work with the Creativity Portal. It seemed so cliché. She must hear it a thousand times a week.

She thanked me. I told her to take care. We said our goodbyes. I don't think she stopped smiling once.

The magic of SARK is undeniable. She's a warm, friendly soul who makes you know that 'everything is going to be all right.' Now I have another once-in-a-lifetime experience to write in my book. Perhaps I'll name that chapter, "SARKsational!" •

Related SARK Websources:

Planet SARK
The amazing Web experience that is SARK. The newest, latest, and greatest SARK things.

A Self-Coaching Journey Through Make Your Creative Dreams Real
A study guide with questions for reflection for each chapter.

Make Your Creative Dreams REAL
About SARK's book, including excerpts, readings, and reviews.