"Dark and Difficult Times Lie Ahead, Harry..."

Originally posted April 10, 2025

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light."

I am obsessed with memoirs and biographies. In 2023 I read nothing but memoirs and historical fiction about the women who came before us and managed not only to survive, but also thrive in the face of tremendous adversity. I wrote this listicle that about my historical fiction journey.

In these challenging times that we are currently facing, I find myself revisiting these artist’s stories. I have drawn strength and inspiration from them, and hopefully one of their stories will inspire you as well.

Sarah Bernhardt

Born with limited options in her young life she worked her way up through the theatrical ranks only to have it all torn away from her. At one point she lost all her worldly possessions in a fire, and then the Franco-Prussian war broke out. She converted the theater she performed at into a hospital for wounded soldiers and worked as a nurse, assisting with amputations and operations. After the war she was back to square one, and worked her way back up to the top again, eventually becoming a successful world renowned actress.

Hedy Lamarr

A Jewish girl married off to a commander of Hitler’s at the age of 19. She was beaten and raped by her husband and eventually managed to escape. She went on to invent a radio-hoping frequency that helped the allies win the war…oh, and became a famous movie star. She changed the world with her beauty, her brains and her chutzpah.

Lucille Ball

Lucy spent the first 20 years of her career floundering as a dramatic leading lady. In her 40’s she finally struck gold with I Love Lucy and then became a prime target of McCarthyism. Through humor, she triumphantly emerged on the other side of scandal, and went on to become the first woman in charge of a film studio, where she championed projects that showcased diversity.

New episodes coming soon!

In the meantime, check out this episode with Dr. Marcie Beigel where we discuss simple steps to manage anxiety in uncertain times.

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Thanks for sharing part of your day with Anxiety and the Artist. Be healthy. Stay creative.

-Allison and the A&A team