Each man is the architect of his own fortune.

There was a link to this great little interview with Ward Schumaker on Illustration Fridays in my inbox this morning. It needs to be shared. Not just because IF is one of my favorite sites. Not just because you need to see art–though you really do: it’s like vegetables for the soul, or maybe chocolate… mmm chocolate-covered metaphysical broccoli. You need to read this because it’s inspiring in an achievable way.

What do I mean by that?

You read stories of people who are heap big at whatever they do. They have inevitably made it there through perseverance, determination, hard work. Half the time they have a debilitating setback that would have caused lesser mortals (read: you and I) to crumble. One-legged marathon runners are inspiring. But I’m just a normal person. Ward is a normal person, too.

His story is a good example of finding fulfilling work through the normal channels and opportunities. Over time. Without being grabbed by the collar and thrust into the limelight where we could all recognize his awesomeness. Fulfilling work is different for everyone. For some it’s a very specific job, for others it’s criteria like being your own boss and knowing you’re doing some good in the world. Both kinds are good dreams to have, and sometimes it’s nice to be reminded that the way to them is slow and meandering.

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