If SHE Can Do It
Copyright (c) Liz Sumner 2002
I've been thinking about inspiration and what it takes to get motivated. What moves you past your fears and inertia and makes you act? Some would appeal to your higher self and ask you to strive. But maybe something baser is more compelling. To paraphrase Bobby Kennedy, I say look at the way things are and ask why the hell not.
In 1987 a colleague dragged me to a concert in the park to hear a singer/songwriter who shall remain nameless ('cause my god he's still performing). My friend was a big fan mostly, I think, because the guy was attractive and did a wonderful job of self-promotion. It was a glorious summer evening only partially spoiled by the insipid music. As I listened I grew more and more certain that if he could write music then so could I. That night I wrote my first song.
A beloved friend had a similar experience. As she was starting her spiritual journey she met a man who made his living channeling a profound and gifted spirit guide. The guide had great wisdom, but the man chain-smoked, ate junk food, and had troubled teenagers. His earthly life was far from together but guidance led him eventually to find worldly success and renown. My friend, who knew him when, shook her head and said if he can do it so can I. She's been guided ever since.
I've been pondering the nature of creativity and wanted to write about it, but I struggled with the notion of how to make my ideas useful. What do I know? So allow me to inspire your scorn. I invite you to show me up. Think to yourself, "if she can do it then I certainly can." Then go write something and publish it on the web. I will be pleased and proud, and will add "highly motivational" to the list of kudos on my website.