Creativity Brings Peace
Jamilah
I have had many practical people in my life. Including those I love the most. They're good at taking care of the details, which I'm not keen on. But sometimes I get frustrated with people who are so concerned about everyday life that they don't see the larger picture.
As a child I learned the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus was at their house. Martha, the practical one, bustled around preparing refreshments for her guest. Mary sat down and listened to Jesus' teachings. Martha scolded Mary for not helping. Jesus defended Mary. I would have to say that is my favorite story in the Bible.
People need to take time to listen. To observe the world around them. To express their emotions creatively--through words, pictures, or music. Children have this talent. But as we grow up into the adult world of work and taxes, most of us lose it.
I'm not visual--though I have tried--and I can only imagine the wonder at producing a painting or sketch which captures a feeling, a mood. Like the person who can choose the right sequence of musical notes, with just the right rhythm, to express something deeper. My tools are words. I love the exhilaration of putting words and phrases together--sometimes recklessly, other times with great care--to produce a piece which speaks.
Creative expression brings me peace. And my guess is the world would be a more peaceful place if people learned to think creatively. The war in the Middle East has continued for nearly 60 years, and yet the key players continue to approach the problem the same way. Thie is particularly true of the last five years, during with time we have seen a real dearth of creative thought on the political front. Bomb and kill. Kill with bombs. Demand obedience, threatening with bombs. It hasn't worked. Why do they keep doing it?
Creative children need to be encouraged to become creative adults. And creative adults need the courage to avoid conforming--advancing instead on creative expression and thought.
Creativity is the force which drives civilizations to excel. Though we do need the Marthas to remind us to pay the bills on time.
Access: Public
QAR
August 2008 
I think creativity can connect someone more intimately with their true heart, the core, the essence - which can certainly lead to a greater sense of peace. Yet, there are plenty of creative types who engage in self-destruction because their cultivation of self was partial. I think creativity can manifest in many areas of life, how we interact with others, how we foster well-being, and in what we create. I totally agree that creativity “is the force which drives civilizations to excel.” Add some love and clarity and you've got it made.