Authors : Art of the Song : John Dillon : Creativity is for Everyone!

Art of the Song Creativity Corner

Creativity is for Everyone!

By John Dillon

The creative process is a path of discovery. And part of that discovery is finding where our creativity shines. Not everyone will be a great artist, or a great poet or musician. But each of us does have a unique creative gift to share with the world. And it’s through making this kind of contribution that we do our part to make the world a better place. Our challenge is to find (if we haven’t already) the creative activity that gives us the greatest opportunity to make a difference… the activity that makes us shine! Maybe it’s raising a family; maybe it’s becoming a great chef, or quilting, or discovering a way to make biodegradable plastic, or maybe a new way to reduce our dependence on oil.

Recently, Viv and I attended the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability Conference in Santa Monica, California. Here was a gathering of “Cultural Creatives,” people from businesses committed to making the world a better place, through creative solutions to the problems that face our society and our planet. According to many at the LOHAS Conference, we are near the “tipping point,” that point of critical mass where suddenly the group of people interested in health and sustainability moves into the “mainstream.” Patricia Aburdene, author of Megatrends 2010, addressed the conference with statistics that showed that in the 5 years between 1994 and 1999, the percentage of the US population seeking spiritual growth increased from 20% to 78%. And it’s likely increased substantially since then. Never before have we humans thirsted more for a deeper meaning to life, a spiritual connection.

According to visionary author, Matthew Fox, “Creativity is where the divine and human meet.” Participation in a creative activity connects us to Spirit, and deepens our knowledge of who we really are. It is not only our birthright to be creative, but according to Fox, it is our duty.

You don’t have to be an artist or a musician to be creative. Any life can be lived as a work of art, if lived with joy, humility, and the spirit of the present moment. So, how can you make a difference? Get creative! Be passionate about what you do! Find a creative solution to a problem at work! Pick up a paintbrush, a pen… sing in the shower, sing for a friend! Get together with folks to talk about creativity, and share your creative gifts! Let your creativity SHINE! •

© John Dillon 2006

About the Author | More by John Dillon
John Dillon is co-host and co-producer of Art of the Song Creativity Radio with his wife Vivian Nesbitt. Originating in Taos, NM, Art of the Song explores creativity and inspiration through in-depth interviews with makers of folk, jazz, roots and blues music. For more information and to find a station near you visit www.artofthesong.org.

06/15/06