We live in “interesting” times, this is undoubtedly true. But while we may be facing certain crises and we are trying to juggle negativity in various realms - politics, healthcare, and more - it is truly important to pause and bring levity to life. The concept of “OOPS” is highly apropos to daily life.
We all have moments when we make a mistake, become confused, and come upon surprises. These moments can range from minuscule to major depending on the situation. Oops is ubiquitous and universal, connecting all humans from all cultures, stories, and orientations. The word oops is the English form, and there are versions with different spellings across the world. Common equivalents are “ops” (Italian and Portuguese)…. “opa” (Spanish, Greek, Russian)…. “oups” (French)…. and “oeps” (Dutch).
I have a series of paintings that declare the power in a simple statement of Oops. The paintings feature joyful, intense, layering colors, and the word Oops written in cursive. Oops can be an orientation, a mindset for juggling the intricacies, eccentricities, banalities, and the beauties of life. I was hit with the power of Oops moments during and after one of the most difficult times in my life. The embracing of Oops provided a segue to levity and spaciousness in my consciousness. As life goes on, I continue to say Oops in daily life. I find I am able to have greater self-awareness, positivity, self-compassion, and compassion for others. This journey to embrace and promote Oops continues.
So, do you ever have moments when something goes haywire, either from our actions or something else? These moments may have varying degrees of seriousness, but how nice is it to ultimately laugh and say “OOPS”?
With my OOPS art, I build and play with this concept using colorful graffiti on different surfaces.
I invite you to share your OOPS moments as I share mine in the stories. Life deserves levity and compassion and OOPS is a way to get there.
- Karen Justis
