I’m happy to welcome artist and writer Tarky Lee. Today, Tarky shares an inspiring post and her first illustrated production, The Giving Back Tree.

Ten Lessons that Giving Teaches:

Giving is a form of love: “This is the miracle that happens every time to those who really love: the more they give, the more they possess.” Rainer Maria Rilke

Giving is AS important as receiving: Being able to receive from others is a gift you give the giver.

Giving helps us feel connected: We are inextricably connected to one another. It is often the lifeline that saves and helps us flourish. We are not alone.

Giving to yourself matters: Everyone needs to learn that taking good care of ourselves is a form of giving to the people who love us. We all have mental and physical limits. It’s like being on an airplane, remember to put the oxygen mask on yourself first.

You always have something to give: No matter how limited you feel, just your presence is a present. You being in a room and being with people who love you IS enough.

Giving is good for the soul: Our spirits need giving and receiving to feel whole.

Giving helps us all grow: We learn a lot about ourselves and others when giving goes well or it doesn’t. Life’s lessons come from the growth we are willing to see.

Giving shows us what is possible: Never underestimate what can happen when we choose to support each other, seemingly impossible feats can be reached with love and patience.

Giving can change the world: Every day the love, care and support we show each other changes people’s lives. Never lose faith.

Giving is living: We come alive when we give to others. Watch the magic of what happens when you give.

Blurb

The Giving Back Tree is an original take on the classic tale of a tree who gave everything. Love is a healing force in this tender and magical story that reminds us the end is also a new beginning. We CAN grow back.

Excerpt

Purchase Links

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Author Bio and Links

Tarky Lee is an Oakland, California based queer artist, writer, activist, and professional child care provider. She believes the stories we tell ourselves and others have the power to reshape our lives and heal our hearts. This is her first illustrated publication. She looks forward to sharing many more of her books, ideas, and art with the world.

Tarky is a name given to the author by a powerful spirit she nannied named Alaska. Lee is the author’s middle name. The pen name Tarky Lee is a dedication to the child that lives in us all.

Twitter | Instagram | Amazon Author Page | Email

Giveaway

Tarky Lee will be awarding a $15 Amazon/Barnes & Noble gift card to a randomly drawn winner via Rafflecopter during the tour. Find out more here.

Follow Tarky on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.