Make something that did not exist before you created it. Make some art: compose music, write a poem, draw, or live as only you can. You are the only one living right now, in this moment, with your experiences, with your dreams, with your abilities, and with your unique perspectives. The world needs your art. You need your art.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do, than the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.
— Mark Twain (1835-1910) American writer, humorist, entrepreneur, publisher, and lecturer
Art makes us see the world through a different lens and with a new perspective—maybe in a light that we could never have imagined on our own. Through art, we can recognize ourselves in a mirror held up to life. Or, maybe, like Alice in Wonderland we see through the looking glass to another amazing world—of dreams and fantasies—beyond our wildest imaginings.
Art demands to be made. We are all creative in some way. What is deep inside you longing to be expressed? Maybe you can’t put words to it, but you could plant a flower garden, you could arrange the items on your bookshelf, paint a room, write a poem, draw something, enjoy some music . . . there are many levels of creativity. Part of it may be in enjoying other people’s creative efforts. We are all enlightened and happier when we experience art. Visit a botanical garden, a museum, a park—find what gives you energy and creative passion. Be open and aware.
Your next-door neighbor or friend may never go to a museum or read a classic book. However, everyone around you experiences your life in whatever way you express your creativity.
Creativity is what connects us with our humanity, connects us to the world, and gives us a deeper connection with life—and with each other. It is important. Don’t downplay your influence or your role in making art. Your creativity is important. You are important. Creativity is contagious. Make some art.
A Little Creative Fun
Sometimes I am very tired when I get home from work and I don’t feel like doing much. I don’t have the energy to write music or words. So, I’ve set up a small workspace in the basement den for working on collages. Occasionally I go downstairs and spend some time cutting and gluing just to relax and have a little creative fun.
Several days ago on NPR, I heard an audio remembrance of the beat poet, Lawrence Ferlinghetti. From an archived recording from 1994, Ferlinghetti says this:
I really believe that art is capable of the total transformation of the world and of life itself.
— Lawrence Ferlinghetti (1919-2021) American poet, painter, and social activist
The NPR segment ended with that quote. Chills ran down my spine. Yes! Art is capable of transforming the world. So, make something . . . anything. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover your creativity. Transform your world. Make some art!
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List ways you express your creativity. How do you feel when you are being creative? How do you see art transform people or the world around you?
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