Our “truest self” is inherently creative. She is bold and imaginative; at least each of us starts out that way. We are born into this world as pure potentiality. In our early years, we believe we can be or do anything. The world is our playground and our palette.
Yet, somewhere along the way, many of us lost touch with that wild and joyful little girl who painted in bold strokes, danced among the daisies, or dreamed of a magical life while gazing at the stars. In this time of innocence and unlimited possibilities, we engaged with life as our “truest self.”
It is our life’s purpose to remember and embrace this truest self, the totality of who we are—wholeness—pure and simple. Interestingly, “wholeness” and “holiness” come from the same root word, have the same origin, and to accept one is to gain the other. To reclaim our wholeness is a sacred act. One of the most profound paths we can take to reclaim our whole and “holy” selves is the path of self-expression.
Every religion/spirituality has its creation story, a Creator who fashions the world and its people through shaping them, breathing life into their form. Our response to that—being creative ourselves—mirrors this divine endeavor. Our personal creativity is an act of re-shaping, re-birthing ourselves. We begin by acknowledging our passions, doing what brings us joy, and engaging in community with kindred others. Each of these acts kindles the flame of creativity and sets us on the road home to our truest selves.
Your unique creative expression, whatever that might be—childrearing, gardening, social activism, teaching, singing, healing arts, even daily work—offered with passion, honed through commitment, can uncover your truest self. For me, this journey began in the mid-1990s when my writing life began to take shape. It continues today with every word that I place upon the page. Writing has deepened my understanding of myself as a sacred being, one whose true nature is peace, joy, confidence, generosity, and compassion for others.
The great Persian poet, Rumi, offered us an earnest invitation when he wrote:
“Today, like every other day, we wake up empty and frightened. Don’t open the door to the study and begin reading. Take down a musical instrument. Let the beauty we love be what we do.”
I offer these questions for your consideration and discussion:
What is the beauty you love and what are you doing with it?
How is it helping you reclaim your truest self?
