A few weeks back, our amazing contributor Ruth Chan reached out via email to Joanna and me, sharing these comics along with a note: “I recently stumbled upon these comics I created years ago during one of the toughest periods in my life. I titled them ‘Portraits of the Unsure.’ They still make me tear up, so I thought they might connect with CoJ readers?”
The moment I explored them, I felt my throat constrict and tears beginning to brim. Each comic—showcasing an adorable animal revealing a confession about feeling uncertain or celebrating a hard-won lesson—reflected a little piece of me as well. Here are the comics, paired with a Q&A featuring Ruth…
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Jannelle: At the time you created these comics, what was happening in your life?
Ruth: I was 32 years old, having just separated from my husband and lost my job. I needed to vacate our joint apartment because I couldn’t afford to stay. Everything I had known vanished overnight.
That sounds incredibly difficult.
I was in a deep state of depression. The only things I could manage were walking my dog and creating these animal portraits. I began with just one, and then kept making one daily. In hindsight, I realized that crafting them was my method of processing everything I felt.
What type of job were you laid off from?
I worked in community-based nonprofit management, and it was through painting these portraits that I began to gain the courage and excitement to think, ‘Perhaps I do want to become an illustrator.’ I was at rock bottom, so the only way was up. These portraits marked the start of my portfolio. I also began taking children’s book illustration classes at the School of Visual Arts.
Which comic from this series resonates with you the most now?
The one with the marching band. I’m still constantly trying to stop controlling every situation. As a parent, this is particularly challenging, as my instinct is to control the chaos! But I have to repeatedly remind myself, ‘It’s okay if my daughter ends up making a mess. It’s fine if she doesn’t finish her lunch because she prefers to play outside. Let the day unfold as it will. It’s fine.’ Because that’s when the real magic occurs, you know?
It’s a valuable lesson.
Also, the comic with the bowling pin. I struggle significantly with asking for help, even though I know my friends and family are available to support me.
During your divorce, what gestures from friends and family were particularly supportive?
My friend Jane suggested that we share a Blue Apron subscription, which led to us regularly visiting each other’s homes to cook together. I believe this was her way of ensuring I wasn’t eating alone or even making sure I was eating at all, in such a thoughtful manner. Whenever I reflect on that time in my life, I think of the heartbreak. Yet, I’m also continually moved by the incredible ways my friends steped up without waiting to be asked.
Many of these comics focus on the acceptance of one’s true self. What insights have you gained about embracing your own identity?
What I appreciate about these portraits is that all the animals possess imperfections. They may be a bit quirky, broken, or unusual. I believe this conveys the message that embracing our authentic selves fosters connections with others. Striving for perfection only stands as an obstacle to forging genuine, intimate relationships.
Ultimately, what would you say to someone facing a rough time, particularly when it seems unimaginable that good things await on the other side?
There’s often a substantial fear of change because you can’t foresee what lies ahead. But today, I find myself on the other side, and I feel such joy. If I hadn’t lost my job, I might not have discovered my path as an illustrator. You never know what beautiful, marvelous things may arise from significant changes in your life. You just have to remain open to it.
Thank you so much, Ruth!
P.S. Here’s a tip to alleviate worry, along with why grief is like butter.
**Heartwarming Comics That Illustrate the Journey of Finding Your Way**
In a world often filled with uncertainty and rapid change, stories that delve into the adventure of self-exploration and personal growth can provide solace, motivation, and a sense of belonging. Heartwarming comics, in particular, possess a distinctive power to convey these themes through a blend of expressive art and touching storytelling. Whether they follow a character grappling with life’s obstacles, seeking purpose, or learning to embrace their true selves, these comics resonate profoundly with audiences of all ages.
Here’s a glimpse at some heartwarming comics that beautifully depict the journey of finding one’s way.
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### 1. **“Heartstopper” by Alice Oseman**
Initially a webcomic and now a bestselling graphic novel series, *Heartstopper* portrays the budding romance between Charlie, a shy and thoughtful teenager, and Nick, a popular rugby player. Set in a British high school, the narrative delves into themes of identity, mental health, and self-acceptance. Through gentle pacing and expressive illustrations, Oseman captures the vulnerability and joy of discovering oneself and finding someone who recognizes you for who you are.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** The comic’s tender depiction of young love and the characters’ emotional development offers a comforting and affirming experience for anyone navigating their own journey.
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### 2. **“The Tea Dragon Society” by Katie O’Neill**
This charming graphic novel invites readers into a whimsical realm where tea dragons—gentle beings that grow tea leaves from their horns—are nurtured by a tight-knit community. The narrative follows Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, who discovers the fading craft of tea dragon care and the significance of tradition, friendship, and finding one’s place.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** With lush illustrations and a gentle storyline, *The Tea Dragon Society* is a calming tale of discovering purpose and the quiet strength of love and community.
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### 3. **“On a Sunbeam” by Tillie Walden**
An expansive sci-fi graphic novel, *On a Sunbeam* tells the tale of Mia, a young woman who joins a crew that restores historic buildings in space. As the story unfolds, it alternates between her current adventures and her past at a boarding school, where she fell for a mysterious girl named Grace. The narrative addresses themes of love, loss, and the bravery needed to pursue what truly matters.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** Walden’s intricate artwork and emotionally resonant storytelling deliver a profoundly moving experience about healing, chosen family, and love’s power to guide us home.
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### 4. **“Hark! A Vagrant” by Kate Beaton**
While leaning more towards humor than traditional heartwarming tales, Kate Beaton’s *Hark! A Vagrant* presents a clever and often surprisingly tender perspective on historical and literary characters. Through witty satire and expressive cartooning, Beaton exposes the absurdities of existence, the quirks of humanity, and the enduring significance of stories from days gone by.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** Beneath the comedy lies a profound appreciation for storytelling and the human experience, reminding readers that even in satire, there remains room for empathy and understanding.
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### 5. **“Quiet Girl in a Noisy World” by Debbie Tung**
This autobiographical comic illustrates the life of an introvert navigating adulthood, relationships, and the pressures of a loud, extroverted environment. Through straightforward yet evocative imagery, Debbie Tung shares her journey of embracing her quietness and finding joy in solitude and creativity.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** Readers who have ever felt out of sync will find comfort in Tung’s sincere insights and gentle encouragement to honor one’s true self.
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### 6. **“Bloom” by Kevin Panetta and Savanna Ganucheau**
Set in a coastal town, *Bloom* follows Ari, a young man caught between his aspiration to move to the city and his duty to support his family’s bakery. When he encounters Hector, a kind and grounded aspiring baker, Ari begins contemplating what he genuinely desires from life. This narrative unfolds as a slow-burn romance interwoven with self-discovery, family, and passion.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** The soft, blue-toned illustrations and sensory details of baking cultivate a cozy atmosphere that emphasize the emotional depth of the characters’ experiences.
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### 7. **“Adulthood is a Myth” by Sarah Andersen**
This compilation of semi-autobiographical comics humorously tackles the everyday challenges of adulthood, anxiety, and creative pursuits. Sarah Andersen’s relatable humor and candid portrayals of millennial life provide reassurance that the path to “figuring it all out” is frequently chaotic—and that’s perfectly fine.
**Why it’s heartwarming:** Andersen’s comics remind readers they are not alone in their struggles, and that laughter can be a powerful coping mechanism.
