Some people seem to just gush creativity — in the way they think, communicate, and express themselves. Ideas seem to come out of thin air. Others will tell you “I don’t have a creative bone in my body.” But I believe most everyone employs creativity every day in one way or another, whether they realize it or not.
We were created to create. The Bible tells us we’re “created” in the image of God. So, if He created everything in the universe, and we’re created in His image, we were designed to be creators as well.
Creatives will tell you they’re at their best when they’re exercising their creativity. Writers, painters, illustrators, builders, singers, actors, architects, musicians — you get where I’m going here — it’s their calling. And it’s a calling they must answer to find fulfillment. Without it, their life can seem dull at best and unbearable at worst.
What do you think of when you hear the word creative? For many, the first thing that comes to mind is the arts: painting, graphics, film, photography or writing. But creativity can take so many more forms — decorating a home, landscaping a yard, artfully folding a napkin — even putting together a financing deal, painting a car or growing tomatoes.
Exercising our creativity is good for that which ails us. Recording artist John Mellencamp, known for hits like “Jack & Diane,” says he’s only in his right mind when he exercises his craft. He said when he’s not creating, not serving that “gnawing hunger,” he becomes a hypochondriac. Essentially, his gift turns on him, causing him to create something that’s not there. He said he learned that to stay sane he must create.
Pensacola hairstylist and artist Cortney Crosby said all of us are born with the tools we need to be creative.
“Creativity is a process of engaging our imagination. Opening your heart to the divine can unlock creative parts of yourself stifled by our society,” said Crosby. “Remember when they told you to put the crayons away at age 8? Creativity can be healing and has been a huge part of my journey.”
So, what calling have you left by the wayside? Did you doodle or sketch in your notebook at school but leave that behind? Have you been trying to write that short story but never got to the first chapter? Love to create beautiful gardens but can’t find the time? Did you give up your instrument after school? Is there a longing you can’t place?
It happened to me. After playing trumpet in college, I put my instrument in a case and mostly forgot about it. I say mostly because I would occasionally take it out and play — and reminisce — stuck in those glory years. Ten years went by. When I finally began playing regularly again, I discovered good feelings I hadn’t had for years. Making music and the community that comes with it — it’s life for me — I just didn’t realize that piece of my puzzle was missing until it was put back in place.
So, I’ll ask again — what creative passion have you put on permanent pause? What’s holding you back? You might find a whole new piece of your life falls right into place, where it was always meant to be. It’s time to get the crayons out.
Jeff Rogers, Chief Buzz Officer
Buzz Marketing
