She emailed and asked me if I could look at her work and let her know if she should continue to pursue photography. She was sad, lonely, and felt like she was losing business to other photographers.

I told her not to focus on what others were doing and–no–I wouldn't look at her critique her portfolio. I believed she had it all wrong. She wanted me to give her permission to pursue her creative passion, but I'm in no position to do so. No one is.

If shooting (or writing/painting/filming/drawing/etc.) is the thing that makes you feel alive, then you owe it to yourself to do it. You must allow your artistic endeavors to fill your lungs, or else you'll suffocate.

Whether you will have a career as a creative shouldn't be the focus, but–rather–staying true to the inner desire to create and make things that inspire you. Getting paid for your endeavors is blessing, not a justification.

Create for your soul, give yourself permission, and love the journey.