Sandy Combs shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Sandy, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity of the heart is the most important quality to me. Do not risk your integrity over anything. How then can you live with yourself since your conscience will not let you forget anyway. If we don’t follow the good, by default we will go to the bad. “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out”. Proverbs 10:9
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a traditional representational painter who seeks to find the beauty and peace in landscapes and animal portraiture. I work in oils, watercolors, and soft pastels. I create my paintings from what inspires me, therefore I have a deep connection to each piece I’m working on. I use color, light, and shadows in my compositions to elicit emotions that awakens something within the viewer and enriches their life.
I’ve always had the need to create with my hands since a small child, mostly practical things like sewing clothing, quilts and costumes. While living on a ranch, working, and raising a family, I got to experience a well rounded life in the midst of a beautiful landscape. Painting came later in life. It’s been a gift and I am blessed to have been on an artistic journey for many years now.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Make your life and work honorable. The attributes of truth, gentleness, and humility will take you far.
Deception and lies will break bonds for me. It causes chaos and confusion. Acknowledging your indiscretion and seeking forgiveness may restore the relationship, or it may not.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Two life experiences I’m very familiar with are suffering and success. Success is important for how you value yourself, whether you want to believe that or not. It validates your work and accomplishments which can lead to happiness. Be aware of pride and arrogance. It is not a virtue and can easily destroy any good will from others. “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall”. Proverbs 16:18
No one wants to suffer, but it’s been said that it develops character and can deepen your ability to be compassionate to others. That is a virtue. It may take a lot of patience to get there.
Have a generous heart and when you are a success, bring others up with you
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Realize that life is a transformational journey. Courage is not given to the very few. You have to practice it daily because one day you may need it and then you will be able to use it in a powerful way. Have confidence that you can accomplish your biggest challenges even during trials.
Regret is futile, so ask yourself “Am I going to regret this?” in decision making.
Work hard and become better than average at what you do. Live by the Golden Rule of “doing unto others what you would have them do unto you”. You will be successful and happy especially with yourself, and try to be the best friend someone’s ever had.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, because I acknowledge that there is a God in heaven and He is watching over me. I get my strength and creativity from that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sandycombs.com
- Facebook: Sandy Combs
Image Credits
Rebekah Hall
Alan Lade
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