Ice Field Parkway Pastel over Watercolor
The Holidays are upon us, and each day brings a new “To Do” list. It seems like the holidays were just here. Where did this year go? That’s aging! When we were kids the time between birthdays and holidays was oh so long! But as we age, they just seem to run together. Although I think it’s helped along a bit by commerce. Those December holiday decorations are out before the fall equinox has occurred, and “Black Friday” sales start while we are still planning our Halloween costume. Times change and time changes us. But there are some universal truths.
“There is a quiet light that shines in every heart. It draws no attention to itself, though it is secretly there. It is what illuminates our minds to see beauty, our desire to seek possibility, and our hearts to love life. Without this subtle quickening our days would be empty and wearisome, and no horizon would ever awaken our longing.” John O’Donohue
I came across this quote recently and have thought a lot about its significance. Another word for light might be “desire”. We all have desires in our heart, a spark we want to ignite. The problem is not all of us do. We find reasons not to…too busy, too tired, have no talent, would feel uncomfortable. None of which are good excuses.
There is much in this world to illuminate our minds, from the wonders of “Mother Nature” to all the arts. They open our minds and free us to explore all the wonderful possibilities that life has to offer. A treasured gift we humans have been given. Why don’t we take advantage of it more?
No matter which holiday we are celebrating this season, each one calls for introspection and the celebration of life. We need to take time to examine our possibilities, and ask ourselves how we can illuminate our mind? Are we working to our potential? Are we growing in what we do? Can we try something new? Would life be better if we changed our routine?
“If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we are not really living.” Gail Sheely
Change serves as an encouraging push toward the unknown, reminding us that new experiences aren’t hurdles to overcome but opportunities to savor. Trying something new opens the door to enlightening experiences. It keeps our minds alert and as we age that is so important. It doesn’t have to be done perfectly. It just needs to be explored. Taking up new skills or learning about new subjects is an optimal way to keep our brains alert. Ongoing learning can also improve memory and cognitive function by giving our brain cells a good workout and keeping them communicating with one another.
Appreciating the little things in life helps us focus our attention on what nurtures and sustains us. There is so much in that focus that can motivate our creative powers and make life meaningful. We are never too old to try new things. Of course, I would advocate an art-related activity. But…anything new would activate the brain cells.
Thank you for reading and being part of the Creative Blog Family. Happy Holidays!
A new session is starting January 5th 2024 of “Explore Your Creativity” Fridays at 9:30 at the HUB on Canal, New Smyrna Beach, FL. All mediums and genres are welcome. We explore and we share. carolynaland@gmail.com