As you make resolutions and set goals for yourself in the New Year I want to encourage you to add “Creativity” as an item on that list. I like Eugene Peterson’s translation in The Message of Galatians 6.
“Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given. And sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.”
This makes me realize I am responsible for the creative part of me and I should immerse myself into that creativity and be the best at it that I can be.
Don’t fall into to the trap of saying “I’m not creative”, spend some time in exploration of your creative side, what is it that energizes you? Music, playing an instrument, cooking, woodworking, writing, gardening, sewing, knitting, photography, teaching, painting, drawing, sports, or even car repair-all the things we often regulate to being “a hobby” something of lesser importance in our lives, not as the creative gifts God has placed in us to be used by Him and to glorify Him.
This year don’t only spend your time with your Point University studies, but find some ways to grow that creative seed. YouTube Videos, SkillShare, and other online resources provide instructions in many creative areas of interest. Your local art store and hobby shop often have hands-on classes… ask someone who’s creative work you admire how they got started and could they teach you the basics. I encourage you to take that first class, watch that first video, give it a try, you never know where it may lead.
So this year if you have committed to lose 20 pounds, but love to cook … well go ahead and express your creative self in baking a “Beautiful Pound Cake” … Then just walk it across the street and give it your lonely shut-in neighbor.
Blessings, and be a blessing in the year ahead!
Blair Walker, Access Site Director, West Point
