In creating, we’re all in this together

Sometimes we reach out to help others and wind up helping ourselves. I’m reaching out today to encourage fellow writer Bob Rodriguez to keep on sharing his stories with me and the other readers of the Chronicle. And, by doing this, I’m helping myself out of my own writer’s block, because Bob gave me something to write about. 

As I read Bob’s column in the July 24 edition (and yes, I read it all the way through!), I smiled in recognition and gratefulness. In recognition of what writer’s block feels like; in gratefulness for Bob’s willingness to express his feelings and share his challenge with others.

It takes courage to put yourself out there, to be exposed to the world as you exhibit your creativity. Writers, painters, photographers, musicians, actors, dancers, singers, crafters, athletes. We create because we have been given gifts that we feel compelled to use. Using our gifts when someone else is looking, though, opens us up to possible criticism and the risk of failure. I’ve even heard about the fear of success, but I’m not enough of a psychologist to delve into that. 

It seems that all of us have been given some talent that allows us to express ourselves in a unique way. Keep on creating. Keep on doing whatever it is that makes you feel joyful and alive. If you’ve been given a gift and the desire to share it, then go for it, put it out there. And while you’re at it, encourage everyone you know to do the same.

Now ponder these: 

“Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly unconnected.” – William Plomer

“Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity, because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks.” – Yo-Yo Ma

“There is a fountain of youth: It is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.” – Sophia Loren