True Genius Essay Contest Second Place Winner!

True Genius

By Dianne Brown

To be or not to be ... That is the answer NOT the question.

When I choose to be creative and let my inner child run free and uninhibited that is when my true genius reveals itself.

In my normal life, I am not an artist and never claim to be. But once I am in the presence of a child of any age my imagination is my playground. I evolve into a fun kid myself, and my talents and abilities are limitless. You see, kids don't care how well you draw or paint. They just want to share your world, gain your attention, and win your praise.

I have a six year old grandson who has been the inspiration for revving up my creativity for many years. Keagan is game to try any project his MeMe can dream up.

My art supplies are very simple and inexpensive but highly effective. I gave Keagan a shoebox with three marbles, an egg-shaped paper cut-out and tempera paints of his choice. We poured the paint on the paper in the box, and he tilted the box so that the marbles rolled and painted the paper. Keagan was the artist, but I was the excited grandma and "creative genius" behind the masterpiece.

The end result was colorful artwork that the Easter Bunny would be proud to deliver.

Any time that I want to step out of the ordinary and feel smart, funny, and talented I go where the kids are! They are energetic and enthusiastic and can bring out the true genius in me and any other adult who is wise enough to seek the company of a child. •

© 2009 Dianne Brown

03/18/09