Chronic Creativity Symptom #2: Problemplasty

The ability to reconstruct a problem.

(con't)

It is no secret that I am a person with a strong faith in God (or should I say a person with a little faith in a big God?) I have believed for years that God is the ultimate source of creativity. I believe that God created this world as well as the human race. I believe that it is His passion to reconstruct a fallen, broken, and diseased world. I believe that it is His desire to use people to help all who may be broken. I believe that in Him is found wisdom for the most effective solutions for many of the problems we face. All too often, people associate God with being the problem rather than the creative solution. I guess it would be safe to say that God has CC. After all, he is constantly reconstructing problems! Often times, we don’t even realize it. He longs to help with problems. Even right now. On a personal level, what problems do you have? Do you see God as your solution or as the source of your problem? Have you ever asked Him for wisdom? Who told you that God was the source of your problem?

The attitude toward problems is equally a vital component to Chronic Creativity. The classic CC response to a problem might be, “Hmmm… here is a problem... what can I do to help? What sort of solution can be offered to this obstacle?” Then, I can assure you that the person with CC will begin contemplating the various solutions available until the right solution comes up. Of course, if you have CC and want to be rid of the condition, then start to sit around and complain about every problem that comes your way. Gripe, moan, cry, and blame others for it. That is a sure way to be rid of CC right away!

If you WANT to be infected with Chronic Creativity, take this next shot:

Shot #2: Perform Problemplasties

Reconstruct the problems around you. Find solutions. Realize that there are things that you cannot change and things that you can. Your attitude toward problems is certainly something that you CAN change!

In order to illustrate the practicality, versatility, and importance of finding solutions to problems, I would like to share a poem. Perhaps this hits on a spiritual level or on a psychological level for some. Others may see it through the eyes of literacy.

The poem does not end with the solutions. It just ends with the search. I suppose you could think of a few solutions for this poem. Go ahead, write in the book!

Innocence Somewhere

By Angela K. Mack © 6/90

clothed in white
innocence is pure
child-like eyes
see the beauty in the world

clothed in black
eyes of anger
the little girl
becomes her own stranger

beauty is twisted by the lies
of this world
experience destroys
this little girl
and her dreams
now masked
behind the darkness

she fights to see a
light in the night
although excluded by loneliness
and darkened by despair
the little girl searches
to find her
innocence somewhere •

Next: Symptom #3: Creativity and Idea-itis »

About the Author | More by Angela Mack
Angela K. Mack is a K-8 music teacher, composer, musician, painter, and writer. She is active in bringing creativity to her Wisconsin village by raising awareness about the recording studio, Paramount Records, that recorded thousands of blues/"race recordings" just a few blocks from her home in the 1920's. You can listen to her mp3's, purchase her CDs, find blues/African American links, and more on her web site: www.creativeconnectionarts.com.

02/01/05