To draw or not to draw

There is a common misconception that artwork can only be created during the throws of inspiration. That to write, draw, make music, or create in any fashion you have to have a muse sitting on your shoulder filling your heart with child like passion. The reality is that inspiration is awesome, it feels good - it feels like falling in love. I know few people who don't love that sensation, that excitement like Christmas morning when you start a new project, or have a new idea. The cold hard truth is that creation requires you show up to the page more than that initial burst of inspiration. That even when the chips are down, you have cold, the weather is wrong, and you feel like doing nothing - you still show up to the page. You make a line, you dare to loose yourself in the project. Sometimes it will click and hours will pass before you realize it, and other times it's like walking up hill through a stream during a thunderstorm. The point is - every motion you place into the project is a motion forward.

This topic. although something I understand intimately - is something I still struggle with. I have been known to "misplace" my sketchbooks when my heart feels threatened. To blame others or outside events for the reason I'm not drawing or making things. I have thrown artistic temper tantrums when I think I've ruined a piece. I'm human - no matter how alien I feel at times - I'm human. so I post this in hopes it will reach someone - to touch their heart. To understand that today - regardless of how it's going - is the perfect day to create and work on that project that sit's all dusty in the corner. No completed project that is seen by others feels alone or lonely - it inspires those that view it. Even if it's only to say "Hey - I think I could do that!!" and they go and create something of their own.

Thought for today - instead of waiting for the muse to speak - make it curious about what you are doing.