What inspires YOU?

Every act of creation requires work and focus- and just like physical work requires food, creative thought requires “food for thought”.  Problem is, who has the time?!?  My weekly “should do” list of talks, openings, readings and lectures hangs over my desk too often overlooked. It lives in the shadow of the non- negotiable “to do” list.. . . . sigh. My quiet shame in not doing the “shoulds” get’s pushed aside by the fact that I have to do laundry—right this minute. I’m wearing my bathing suit under my jeans for undies and the laundromat will close soon.  Non-negotiable.  Sigh. . . . . .

Living in NYC is a catch 22.   Most of us (especially creative types) are neck deep in the grind working harder than ever to afford to live here because it has gotten outrageously expensive.

And when you ask us why we live here?–

“It’s because of the culture, the arts- the institutions. . . . . obviously”.  And when was the last time I actually went to a museum?

“Uh, well ummmmm. . . . . . I went to see my friend’s band 3 weeks ago. . . . . ”

Shute.

How is it possible I’ve been starving myself from the bounty of creative sustenance that’s everywhere in my city?!   This is bad.   Yet, I don’t feel like I’m starving at all.  I never feel less than inspired to make stuff.     How is this possible?

I forced myself to think about what inspired me last week and I realized:  Inspiration literally is everywhere and not only in the obvious spots. 

I was inspired by the rastafarian playing drums and lecturing on shamanic drum culture on the 6 train and then the jazz trumpet player in Thompkins Square Park as I rode past on the city bike, obviously. Then I got inspired by the deep belly laugh I had about a certain political candidate with the random lady in front of me in line at the grocery store. I saw someone help a woman they didn’t know lift a baby carriage up the stairs in Union Square because she was having trouble and I realized how much random human connection inspires me.    I was inspired by the way the light turned the sky into an orange rainbow behind the silhouette of the city.  Ahhh yes, nature.  I was inspired by the way a wheaten terrier wearing a plaid sweater made direct eye contact with me at a cross walk and then gave a slight bow as if he was saying hello. Oh right- and animals.

Inspiration is everywhere if you look for it—and expect it—although you may have to shift your focus slightly.   It’s hard to define or tell someone where to look or how because it’s different for everyone- but I assure you it is there. When was the last time you were touched by something? in awe? amazed or moved?   I challenge you to look for that more in your own world—you might be surprised and . . . . maybe you’ll get inspired—

Feel free to tell me about it . . .

and have a nice week. . .  🙂