In our living room, we have a picture of Christ with His arms outstretched creating the world hanging above our piano. It is no secret that the act and art of creating fascinates me. Since this is my blog, I'll continue with that theme for today.
Creativity demands persistence, vision, skill, and a host of other attributes. One quality that is frequently overlooked is that of risk-taking. The individual who has created something takes a risk everytime he or she puts it forth for others to view.
Everyone knows that the iconic movie STAR WARS was rejected dozens of times before one producer decided to take a chance on it. The mother who tries a new recipe prays her family will like it. The artist who paints a picture holds his breath when he shows it, whether to his family or at a gallery opening. The composer who writes a song wonders if it will reach inside the heart of his listeners. The writer who submits a story hopes the editor will buy it. (Ironically, two days ago, when I wrote about creativity, I received two rejections of short stories.)
Risks come in different forms: financial, physical, emotional. Whatever the risks, though, the truly creative person knows he must share what he has fashioned. The desire to touch others, to better the world in some small fashion, compels him to do so.
Christ, the ultimate Creator, risked His very life when He brought forth His gospel. Some people accepted it; others rejected it and Him. Yet He knew he had to to take that risk and suffer the consequences.
So, for today, I am grateful for those individuals courageous enough to risk sharing what their hands and minds, and hearts and spirits have created.
And I am thankful that you took -- and continue to take -- the risk of sharing your innermost thoughts with us on this blog. Your courageous creativity sets a wonderful example.
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