One quick update, and then I have to go catch Kyle and Anna on their way out. I spent the day yesterday with Allen and Megan, and they are doing very well. I might have guessed that Allen’s talent for organization would have played a part in their attempts to balance his artwork with his relationship. He has drawn up something of a schedule, setting aside three nights a week for her and three for his painting, and leaving the last free for choice.
Megan, who does not delight so much in restrictions, had a few edits to offer. She suggested that either one of them should be allowed to “override” the schedule of the evening—for example, if there were somewhere she wanted to go with Allen, she could draw him away from the easel, or if he was not inspired any specific night, he could go to a movie with her instead. On the other hand, if he was especially inspired on a date night, he could postpone the date—as long as not much planning had gone into it beforehand.
At first Allen was frustrated with how subjective it was becoming—“why even have a schedule if we’re not going to stick to it?”—but the system has worked well. For one thing, he has discovered that he is comfortable enough with Megan now that he can work while she is present, so often she will come over and keep him company in his studio, quietly reading while he works. For another, he finds that after an unproductive evening, a night out will help to refresh his mind and give him a new start.
What I appreciate most is that they are learning more and more about themselves, and about each other. Sabasa had a stroke of genius recently in that she has begun to inspire Megan so that she is more aware of when Allen should be left alone to work and when he needs a break. And with a bit of help from me, they now feel more comfortable communicating about what they need, and what to do when those needs do not align at one particular time.
It is very encouraging to see them together. It makes me think that I have not quite lost my touch after all.