Our spirituality and creativity are closely linked. Spirituality is our search for meaning in life, and it is during this search that we develop a hunger for something that’s beyond the limits of our ability to fully describe using only language. This is when our creativity is born.
Just like spirituality, creativity moves us beyond ourselves, using our imagination to see the meaning hidden in unexpected places. Tragically, however, our imaginations are being continually constrained and narrowed by the constant barrage of media images we’re exposed to, and the frenzied pace at which we live our lives. We have become paralysed by our own busyness, becoming passive consumers instead of active creators.
To “fix” this, we need to re-engage in the arts as a regular part of our spiritual practice, rediscovering the joy of doing something meaningful.
“The practice of the arts, as disciplined rituals of play in painting, sculpting, acting, dancing, making music, writing, story-telling, is and always was a safe container, a secure vessel to meet existential themes, pathos and mystery.”
Paolo Knill
We have to remember not to confuse creativity with art. Obviously, artistic people are creative people, but creativity is not only limited to those who are gifted in the arts. An engineer or scientist, for example, can also be creative – how else would someone think of converting mould into life-saving antibiotics?
You may not be an artist in the most common understanding of the word, but by being true to your inner self, your authentic self, you can find a safe space within which to tap into your creativity. By understanding your unique and special self, you’ll find you are more spiritual and creative than you ever imagined.
You can nurture your spirituality through being more creative, and your creativity through being more spiritual. Whether you’re knitting a scarf or painting a house, creating video games or writing a novel, make sure it’s an authentic expression of what’s important to you. Be brave.