Thursday, January 21, 2010

Creative Forms



What does it mean to be creative?
The easy answers: sing, paint, play an instrument, invent something

More subtle ways to be creative:
Solve a problem, plan or organize something, help someone

As I prayed this morning, I asked for courage. It's one of my favorite words. I love the idea that we can encourage others - put courage in them - and it seems sinful to me to discourage someone - to take their courage away.

During my prayer, the thought came to me that what I was really seeking was courage through Christ. I can try to be as brave as I want, but deep down I know that I am still inadequate, that I still can't do all or BE all that I hope for. It is only with Christ's help that I can overcome my faults and weaknesses.

As I contemplated that thought during breakfast, emptying the dishwasher, making lunch, I came to understand that my morning prayer--I confess, I often take those moments for granted--was a creative act. No one told me the words to say, and in praying, contemplating, listening, I came to a new understanding, a new way of seeing. Maybe even a new way of being.

That's creative.

(Here's a link to more good thoughts on creativity and happiness.)

2 comments:

Katie Lewis said...

I think it's true. We're creative every day. Every day we say new things and have new experiences and think new thoughts. I don't think it's possible to exist without creating.

Lauren @The Little Things We Do.... said...

i've never thought of prayer as being creative, but i think you're right. it's interesting to look at it in this new light. thanks for sharing your musings :).