Have you ever committed to something artistic without any desire to achieve, and found yourself on the receiving end of divine inspiration?
I have.
It’s pure joy.
“MAKE THE TALE LIVE FOR US
IN ALL ITS MANY BEARINGS
O MUSE” — The Odyssey of Homer
translated from the Greek by T. E. Lawrence
If only we could routinely access that place in our daily lives, especially in work. Trouble is, when we operate mechanically, denuded of soul, the more likely it is we shut out the muse.
And the more we keep doing it, the less likely (sadly) we’ll find connection.
On the other hand, we’re more likely to bridge the gap when we actually follow our call; and in my limited experience that’s nearly always creative; namely, painting, writing, cooking, gardening or singing.
I didn’t use to but these days I’m alive to the idea of energy flows. I know that if I want to do my best work then early mornings are my jumping off point. If I leave it until, say, 8 pm then at best I’ve got an hour or so in the tank.
Think of it this way: where your intention goes so your energy flows. If it all goes into the drama of holding down a job, relationships or keeping up with the Joneses, then it’s unlikely you’ll find the space to create. Even if you do, and no matter how hard you want to be heard, it’s unlikely your muse will show up. Why should she? She only wants to come to the aid of people who are alive all body, mind and spirit and not those who’ve allowed their energy to be annihilated on the altar of success et al.
Of course, I could have this all wrong; and you’ll regale me with your superhuman exploits and how with a few dozen coffees, and lots of exhausting effort your muse shows up no matter what. And that’s fine, but I’d wager it won’t last.
Why?
She’ll be as exhausted as you.
Blessings,
Julian
🙏
Photo by Laura Converse on Unsplash