"The blossom cannot tell what becomes of its odor, and no man can tell what becomes of his influence and example…." — Henry Ward Beecher

IN THIS ISSUE

• June 2004 Journal
• What's New @ the CP
• Spotlight: Soul Food Cafe

JUNE 2004 JOURNAL

Seeds of Creativity

When I hear people remark that we are all connected on some deeper level than what appears to the superficial eye, I quietly think about instances in my life where I find it difficult to disagree.

Think about how easy it is to get caught up in the flurry of energy generated by a group of people aligned with the same goals or beliefs. Are you religious? Do you keep up with the games of your favorite sports team? Have you ever partnered with a favorite cause?

Attending a football game or a Sunday morning church service illustrates the power of being on the same wavelength with others. It's as if people all tune into the same frequency and are guided by the collective power of their own energy.

But then again, I've found that it doesn't necessarily take a large body of people to inspire and motivate us. In our relationships with our friends, spouses, and children we often exercise great influence over their lives, not by telling them what to do, but just by being who we are. In the same vein, we are also influenced by the residual energy (expression) of others delivered through books, films, music, art, and our own memories.

In recent years I've paid more attention to things that influence me. I've realized that I'm inspired by art and creativity of all kinds: children's sidewalk doodles, blooming lilac flowers, clever marketing ads, beautiful watercolor paintings, and even the swirl milk makes in my morning coffee.

The influence others has over our lives was reinforced to me two nights ago when I attended a garden party art gallery featuring the work of several local artists. One of the artists I personally knew, Anna*, remarked to me that "artists are a dime a dozen." I found it disheartening that she didn't realize the impact her artistic talent had on others, specifically me.

I had known Anna since I was 14 years old. Anna was a friend of the family and gifted with the ability to paint. I remember visiting Anna's house many times as a teenager, one year watching the progression of a mural she was painting on her basement wall with acrylics. Each time I'd visit, the mural would be further along with more detail added. I remember thinking to myself at the time how awesome it was that Anna could paint things to look as realistic as they did. Because I couldn't draw my way out of a paper bag, I deeply respected Anna's ability and would be inspired by the memories of her efforts later on in life. Seeing Anna Friday night brought back a flood of memories and rekindled a certain enthusiasm within me.

I hope Anna will someday realize that others are touched by her creativity and appreciate that her work is worth more than 'a dime a dozen.' Maybe she's not realizing the empowering potential of the creative process ... or doesn't know how inspiring she is to others.

I left the exhibition with an abundance of energy, inspiration, and gratitude. And on a deeper level within I knew that I was changed somehow, just by taking in the works of the local artists.

By the way, I asked Anna about that mural on her wall... she never finished it.

* Not her real name

This month, think of how your seeds of creativity might have an effect on someone else… even if it's years before they realize it.

Warmly,

Chris

WHAT'S NEW @ THE CP

Creativity Top Ten Lists and Coaching Tips
An assortment of lists and tips contributed by professionals: Benefits to Creativity; Brainjuicers to Enhance Your Creativity; Keys to Developing Personal Creativity; Distinction: Innovation Vs. Creativity; and Enliven and Expand Your Creativity.

ICAF: Creativity + Children = Peace
Since its founding in 1997, the International Child Art Foundation (ICAF) has focused on hosting children's celebrations on The National Mall, where creative young Americans and children from around the world could explore their creativity, spark their imagination and develop bonds that last forever.

Creativity and Depression
Some people wonder if there is a link between creativity and depression. Here's a collection of articles and research online detailing the relationship between creativity and depression in some people.

SPOTLIGHT ON

Soul Food Cafe
Featuring a rich assortment of visual activities and writing prompts, artistic exploration, and photographic perspectives, the Soul Food Cafe is a portal for artists and writers alike. It is a safe haven where creativity flourishes. The Soul Food Cafe aims to promote creative pursuits as a daily practice. The site is quite literally overflowing with healthy and tasty morsels for every artist. It's full of tips, techniques, references and encouragement.