Why Art?

Finally the time has come! I try to push my peacock feathers down as I say that my art class has come around to where I only hoped it would. I feel more respected by the Professor and the other art students as I take charcoal in hand. Sure the comment "You really capture the *blankityblank-ness* about those toes." doesn't seem like a great compliment (being somewhat profane), however, coming from that scary art snob behind his easel, I enjoyed hearing it.
Although everyone, including myself, enjoys to be admired in some way, I do not by any means draw to be praised or to impress (contrary to my last post, I realize ;) Unless, of course, impression is more literally taken, as in 'one is making a lasting impression on the viewer.' No, my intentions are deeper.
(Shamefully) I would often ask myself growing up "Why do I want to be an artist? Shouldn't I be something more? Something, well, useful, respectable, or otherwise helpful to the world?"And I did cause myself some tears and anguish this way. Yet, art has always had a grip on my heart. Other hobbies I could take or leave as soon as the next tide came in, but drawing, and later painting, were things I always thought about. Things I always knew I needed to do.
Why? Why is it that something like rubbing sticks onto paper would hold me so? I do believe I know- It is what the Lord has given me.
To me, Shading the contours of a still life feels like hugging a good friend. There is not one other job or activity that feels like it's hugging back. It's like I was made for drawing.
I an artist not (only) to produce the best works in my power, but to use the gifts and joys God has given while He allows to do his will. I have few great and grand plans for my art future. I only know that no matter what I do, He has plans for me in art and things far beyond.

I feel a Chariots of Fire viewing is needed....