Thanks, Mmario and Rrumanci:

There have certainly been long stretches in my life when I wrote songs, played music and fooled around with graphic arts without the confidence, or opportunity to share them. That never stopped me. I think for most people who have a creative desire, they will continue to create, whether they have an audience or not. But, I do believe that there is that desire to share... to make a connection. That's what it's all about to me.. whether it's singing a song for someone, or listening to them sing a song... sharing my thoughts with others, or enjoying them sharing their thoughts with me. I think that is at the heart of the creative process.. at least the desire to share, even when it's not possible.

I didn't sing or play guitar in front of anyone until I was 27 years old, even though I'd been playing and writing songs since my teens.
The desire to share was outweighed by a lack of confidence that anyone would want to hear me. Sharing has little do do with how good you are.. it's really much more about being open.

Jerry