1KHO 353: Make Sure Delight Outweighs Fear | Ruth Chou Simons, Home is Right Where You Are
Sep 26, 2024
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Ruth Chou Simons, a bestselling author and artist known for her heartfelt explorations of faith and motherhood, shares her journey from science to art. She discusses the beauty of authenticity during personal growth and the joys of raising six boys. Ruth emphasizes pursuing joy over fear, especially in creative endeavors, and reflects on how motherhood transforms perspectives on life. With warmth, she encourages embracing the idea that home is a state of heart, not just a place.
Ruth Chou Simons shares her transformative journey from science to art, emphasizing personal fulfillment over societal approval.
In her new children's book, Ruth illustrates that true home is rooted in faith and connection with God, transcending physical spaces.
Ruth highlights the importance of shifting from a performance mindset to one of joy in motherhood and daily activities.
Deep dives
The Journey of Self-Discovery
Ruth Jo Simons reflects on her unexpected path toward becoming an artist and author, which began as a rebellion against the pressure to excel in a traditional career. Initially pursuing medicine due to her academic strengths, she eventually realized that her true passion lay in fine arts, a decision that marked a significant turning point in her life. This choice stemmed from a sense of fatigue brought on by constant striving for approval, and she used her artistic gift to serve others rather than to achieve personal accolades. Her story highlights the importance of aligning one’s work with personal fulfillment and faith, a theme that resonates throughout her writing.
Finding Home in Faith
In discussing her new children's book, 'Home is Right Where You Are,' Ruth emphasizes the profound comfort found in Psalm 23, which serves as inspiration for her writing. The book aims to convey the message that true home is not defined by physical locations but rather by a relationship with God. Ruth elaborates that even amidst life’s challenges, such as her children leaving for college, a sense of home comes from trusting in God’s presence and provision. She shares a deep-seated belief that permanence in a familial or material sense isn’t necessary for comfort and belonging, reaffirming that faith can anchor individuals through transitional periods.
Embracing Joy Over Perfectionism
Ruth discusses the idea of 'joyless doing' versus 'joy-filled doing,' stating how many people, including herself, often find themselves trapped in a cycle of seeking approval through achievement. She emphasizes the necessity of shifting focus from performance to genuine enjoyment in one’s endeavors, thereby cultivating a more fulfilling experience. This perspective shift allows for a freedom that promotes creativity without the constraints of perfectionism. Ruth champions the idea that it is crucial to prioritize delight in moments of fear and anxiety, fostering a healthier approach to both personal and professional challenges.
Lessons from Motherhood
Ruth shares insights on the transformative journey of motherhood, particularly the challenges and joys of raising six boys. She reflects on how her experience as a mother has prompted her own growth and self-discovery, revealing that motherhood can often be a path toward personal sanctification. Ruth acknowledges the lessons learned through parenting, such as patience and humility, and how these lessons are intertwined with her role as a guide for her children. She articulates the importance of viewing motherhood as a shared journey, one that enriches both mother and child, rather than merely a series of responsibilities.
The Ongoing Evolution of Family Dynamics
As her children transition into adulthood, Ruth discusses the emotional complexities associated with launching her sons into the world. This shift has led her to reflect on her own feelings of loss and the changing family dynamics as her children grow independent. While she finds joy in their achievements, there's a bittersweet aspect to their growing independence, creating a sense of nostalgia for the days when they were all together. Ruth emphasizes the continuity of love and connection, highlighting that the lessons learned throughout parenting remain influential, even as roles and relationships evolve over time.
In this inspiring episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with bestselling author and artist Ruth Chou Simons for a heartwarming conversation about striving less and finding contentment. Ruth shares personal stories about her creative journey, the challenges of raising six boys, and her transition from a career in science to becoming an accomplished artist and children's book author.
Together, they dive into themes from Ruth’s book When Strivings Cease and her latest children's book Home is Right Where You Are, drawing parallels between faith, motherhood, and the constant process of growth. With authenticity and warmth, Ruth encourages listeners to embrace beauty, trust the journey, and discover that home is not a place, but a state of heart.