The Power of Creativity

Now that I am back on land, without the comfort of sunlit sky and sparkling sea, my thoughts are all-consuming. Grateful at least that now I am able to schedule a regular yoga and meditation practice, I can honestly say I don't know how I would survive without it. There is so much chaos and injustice all around us. It clenches my heart and scrambles my brain. But, it also pushes me to take a good look at how I show up in the world. What can I do to make small positive ripples in a sea that threatens to drown us all?

 I believe this a time of reckoning for our country and for us as humans. We have (perhaps over-) populated this planet and, in the process, have lost touch with the source of our existence. The disregard for nature, the normalization of profit over human dignity, the itch for more-more-more all the time. It's exhausting. 

My mind can be a crazy clutter of anxious thoughts, but when I find stillness, one concept remains--how to maintain serenity when the world feels wonky. Digging deeper, this leaves me with the question—what do I stand for?  What legacy will I leave behind after I am gone? My life, even while consumed by driving a business, has always been dedicated to empowering and uplifting people. I am not always right. I sometimes underestimate the power of my words and deeds. Sometimes I overestimate other's positive intentions. But still...this is what motivates me.

What is the flip side of all the fear, gossip and bad news that we consume on a daily basis? What one thing, unique to human beings is our legacy on this earth? Creativity. When in doubt—make something. Sing, dance, write, garden, arrange flowers, cook a delicious meal. This is the lifeblood of our species--what truly sets us apart. Art. Music. Literature. Dance. Agriculture. Cooking, sewing, sculpting, writing--all of it.

Instead of doom scrolling, I collect positive images daily that inspire me. I am moved to tears watching poor children in Africa dance barefoot in the dirt, smiling. I feel comforted by the sound of accappela choirs singing together around the world. I get choked up watching 20 Buddhist monks walk through all kinds of weather to spread peace. My heart softens when I witness goodness in the world. I wish we could all have soft hearts and strong convictions. Empathy and grit. They can coexist.

So I ask you--what do you stand for? I'd love to know.