Photo Courtesy of PDPhoto.orgFor those of us who need it, a link to an article about The Art of Appreciation. Here is the quote that precedes the article:
At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.
I'd love to know some of the people who have lit the "creative flame" within you.
I have some errands and chores that must be done, but this afternoon, I'm going to sit down and list some of the people who have been responsible for lighting a flame within me--creative and otherwise. The idea goes so well with the Winter Solstice and Advent season that I can't resist.
A great idea, Jen! I *think* about this kind of thing a lot, and make a conscious effort to act on my thoughts but I can see where actually writing it out would bring some fresh insights and perspective. Going to give this one a go ...
ReplyDeleteThis is a nice post. I think of my mother who died of cancer four years ago more at this time of the year and a lot is going on right now. I needed to be reminded to be mindful of those who have influenced me in positive ways.
ReplyDeleteAcey -- As I pondered my list, I realized that blogs are a huge inspiration and motivation...and very much responsible for lighting flames in my life!
ReplyDeleteJo -- Thanks. This year, for some reason, this idea of "remembrance" is figuring largely in my life. Remembrance and appreciation are worthy emotions for this time of year. I like that you used the term "mindful" -- it seems so apt. We get distracted and overwhelmed at this time of year (and since we both lost our mothers in December- sometimes sad), but being mindful of what we truly value is a good thing.
Jenclair, thank-you for sharing that sweet thought. Sometimes our flames are still burning, but diminished in the rush and mundane. You've shared ideas and feelings that have helped increase the brightness of my light. Even with all their limitations words still can bring feelings of goodwill to our hearts. Thank-you.
ReplyDeletebooklogged -- Awwww! Thanks for the kind words, Cheya!
ReplyDeleteAcey pointed out your post on her blog.
ReplyDeleteI must say I love this idea. Lots of people have rekindled my flame through years. Family, teachers, neighbours, friends, artists, priests and even strangers in the street.
I remember once I was in a terrible state, feeling my life was a black hole and that I was starting to dry up (I was having a nervous breakdown though I didn't know it at the time). Then one morning as I was going to work, this middle aged man with sparkling black eyes went passed me, looked at me and he seemed to know something about the cosmic joke that I didn't and to think that I was ludicrous with my fuming airs. This look went straight to my heart. It was then that I took the decision to start a healing process, and since then I have met wonderful people and completely changed my life. I am so thankful for this stranger and this chance encounter!
In my life I have often met good people who have given me unexpected gifts, this is why I keep faith in mankind, life, the universe and all that :o)
And I also like the idea that sometimes I'm the one who gives the sparkle.
Helen -- "Unexpected gifts" - so true! Kind words and a smile are so often unexpected gifts and just as often come from strangers or people we barely know.
ReplyDeleteI don't know why our minds can allow depression to go on for a long period, and then suddenly make the transition to healing, but I've experienced this as well. I like the fact that your healing was inspired by an man with sparkling eyes because it leaves an image for you to recall at will.