Amidst the confusion, a creation of hope
Thank you, to the creator of this ‘Heart in an Australian Paddock’ artwork. You blessed everyone who saw it with HOPE
Sometimes I wonder what the world would be like, if we all LISTENED TO and ACTED ON, that voice inside….. The one which asks us to create something.
The kind soul (let’s call him/her Darcy) who mowed the paddock, pictured above, listened…. and acted. Anyone who sees the finished product can clearly see it was a good use of time and effort. Something that spreads hope and joy. But Darcy had to visualise something that wasn’t there and bring that vision to life.
Imagine Darcy sitting with a morning cup of tea, reflecting on the state of the world and wondering how to make a positive difference. Perhaps the thoughts went something like this……..
“I wish I could do something to make people feel better…….. Things seem hopeless and I feel so helpless…….
How on earth can I make a difference? Out here in the bush……. no money to spare…….. Why am I even thinking about this?….. Why can’t I just enjoy my cup of tea in peace?…..
Perhaps when I mow that paddock closest to the road, I could send a message to passersby?… …..A word?……..A symbol?……Maybe a love heart?
Are you crazy? ……. That’s the dumbest thing I ever heard……. People will think you’re mad……. Even worse, people won’t know what it is and will just assume you are the worst mower in the world!!….“
Nevertheless Darcy stood up, mustered the courage and energy to act; and faced the great unknown. Now, where there were once weeds, we have this beautiful creation.
In her encouraging book ‘The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path To Higher Creativity’, Julia Cameron teaches techniques and exercises to assist people in gaining the self-confidence to use their creative talents and skills. She calls us to action. To stop listening to the Censor in our head who is continually trying to talk us out of our creative ideas.
Cameron recommends twenty Creative Affirmations to help us build the courage to be vulnerable. She uses the word God, but you can substitute your preferred term. I have listed five of the twenty affirmations below.
* My creativity heals myself and others.
* As I create and listen, I will be led.
* There is a divine plan of goodness for me and my work.
* My dreams come from God and God has the power to accomplish them.
* I am willing to be of service through my creativity.
I urge you to pick up your mower, clay, ingredients, pen, laptop, paint, voice, or whatever else you are called to do; and follow Darcy’s lead. Who knows what will happen next, or whose day you will improve? 🙂
“Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay.” Maya Angelou
