The Unexpected

I love it when something new and unexpected comes from the familiar.  Paul and I recently chose to watch a movie that neither of us had heard of – but were intrigued by the subject matter of music (you may know Paul is a musician).  The movie was The Visitor.  The lead character, Walter, learns to play the Djembe, an African Drum.  Paul and I were immediatly hooked and started talking about buying a djembe ourselves.  So, a few days later, there one stood in our kitchen!

What’s so unexpected?  The djembe was mainly for me to play!  Now, even though I grew up with a brother who at one time was a professional drummer and have a professional musician for a husband, I have never leaned to play an instrument – I never even had an interest in it.  The djembe is different.  There is something about the tones it makes and the connection of my hands on the skin that draws me in.  So, with the help of Paul and some video’s I found, I am learning to play.

I’ve had two lessons/practice sessions so far and I already see progress.  The best part?  I finally get to jam with my husband Paul – something he has been waiting 16 years for!

Stefanie

What do you believe you can become?

I love watching and reading biographies of people that have achieved fame and fortune.  It is obvious that regardless of their specific achievements, they all have several traits in common:  a big dream, belief in themselves and in unlimited possibility, an unwavering focus on their “big picture” and a full commitment to their purpose.  This strong focus and commitment saw them through many rejections, naysayers and other obstacles that often appeared on their path.  They all found a way to make their big dream come true, by taking purposeful action daily, saying no to opportunities that would take them off course, saying yes to opportunities that helped them move in the direction of their dreams, and creating opportunities where there were none.  They each had their eye and their attention on the big idea of what they could become, not necessarily on one specific destination.  When we believe in something, there is nothing we cannot be, do or have.

What do you believe you can become?

My Resolution

In my January article, I spoke of choosing one thing to focus on this year as you begin to great goals and resolutions.

For my one resolution this year I have chosen one action to take weekly and that is creativity.  Yes, I’ve talked about it a lot but I too often let it slip to the back burner when my work and life gets busy.  So this year my one intention is to make creativity a part of every week. 

To do that I am going to schedule – as if it is an appointment with me – creative time.  During that time how I choose to be creative could include painting, photography, decorating, writing… 

The outlet and even the outcome does not matter.  What matters is having such an outlet for creative expression.  How will this affect my life?  Creativity, for me, is my meditation and inspiration.  It brings me to a different space, more serene and playful.  It transports me from the rush of life to a state of being more present.  When I am creative, I focus on the details of a landscape, the colors of a painting, and my immediate emotions/thoughts when writing.  When I am playful, present and serene, my whole life takes on a better perspective!