It's no secret that we're all a little crap at something, in the same way that each and every one of us excel at something else. At times it might be hard to know what's what, but the best we can do is try. After all, there's no escaping the incapability of existence, so we might as well have some fun with it along the way.
Don't worry, not about to get all wordy here. I've just been reminded on a number of occasions recently, that the world is one hell of a place, and it would be easy to get lost in the chaos of it all. We all see the tragedies happening every single day, but when we're subjected to our own little trials and tribulations we tend to pay a bit more attention.
The alternative isn't all that good though. If we felt every single hardship with complete empathy and perspective, it would be paralysing. I used to watch the news every day and find myself clenching fists and grinding teeth. The only thing that makes tragedy and injustice even worse is knowing that you're powerless to do anything about it. Suffice to say that I've had a much lighter time of it since I stopped inviting it into my day, which I guess is how we shape our own tale.
One of my favourite sayings is the one that goes "change what you can, let go of what you can't". We've all heard some verison of it before, but I think it's one of the most fundamental keys to happiness. Sure there are those of us who lack empathy and never get all that affected by the needless suffering in the world, but the rest of us have to deal with it somehow.
I used to think that putting these important things to the side was akin to compliance and endorsement. As if I was encouraging tragedy by ignoring its existence and failing to get up in arms about it. Perhaps that was a rather juvenile take on the tale, as I eventually made peace with the fact that nothing I can do at this moment in time will have any impact on these horrible things in the world.
It's important to include "at this moment in time" because everything is relative. We may not be responsible for all the bad things that happen in the world, but we all have the capacity and responsibility to do what we can to help. So instead of worrying about what's happening now (that we're unable to change), let's focus on what could be happening in the future, as the future is ours to create.
You might be thinking "what the hell has this got to do with creativity", but it's basically the reason for everything. There are many ways that we humans communicate with one another, even beyond the obvious verbal languages that often add to the divisions between us.
When I want to say something important, the best way I feel I can is by making an image. Of course, not all images are a profound statement, but I just about guarantee you that when I have something profound to say, it will be in a picture.
There will be analogues for everyone depending on their own methods of expression. I've known people who sing their emotions, prepare food, organise events, and even clean floors. All of these can be a way to express that which is beyond words, and every instance of these ephemeral languages should be savoured and recognised.
Which brings me to the final part of this tale, where we get to live our lives and put something worthwhile into the world. Letting go of things that are beyond our grasp isn't about what's left out; it's about what we are all capable of bringing to the table. I can choose to spend my time with worry and sadness, or I can accept my position in the world and exploit it for as much benefit as possible.
This is why I've been painting so many paintings and working my butt off on my big project. I have something to say and this is precisely how I need to say it. I can't wait until I get to dive into all the details, but for now all I can say is that I hope we can have a conversation.
Even without big projects and meaningful conversations, life needs to be lived. Most things in life are hilarious when you look at them objectively, which isn't all that bad. Sometimes all we need is a good laugh and the ability to see the funny side. Concentrate on the things that matter and don't sweat the rest.
new paints - so sexy
started blocking a big canvas
Another quote I like is from the movie Reality Bites when Ethan Hawke's character says "I'm not under any obligation to make the world a better place", and Winona Ryder replies with "yeah, well what good are you then?" or something to that effect. The point being that if you don't make it count then what the hell are you doing with your time? It'll be over before we know it.