I have had some awesome teachers and mentors who have freely given of their time, and I treasure that. We can all make more money, but none of us can buy any extra time. (Although we can manage what we have better, perhaps.) As creative, we need to give back some of that precious time we have been given.
When I think of how I pestered and questioned my mentors, when I pulled every last shred of knowledge and insight from them that they could afford to give, I feel just a bit embarrassed. My enthusiasm can be, ah, a wee much. There. I admitted it. But they were patient, kind, and generous, God love them. I wouldn’t be who and where I am today without them.
Make a list of two other creatives who could use some of your time. Do they need a card, a hug, a shout-out of their latest work? Today I read a beginner’s poem. It was fun for both of us, I think, although I did suggest he call his poem “The Thread Amendment.” I’m not sure he saw and/or appreciated the pun.
I instantly know when I’ve met a creative: I feel that magnetism. Sometimes it’s stronger than at other times. I can even feel what I call “repressed creatives.” But that’s a different topic for another day.
Give the greatest gift to another creative — give of your time. It doesn’t take very long to comment on a blog post, to share good news on Facebook, or to favorite an item on Twitter. Just do it. Let’s be there for one another!
P.S. The above photo and quote express well what I mean, but the photo isn’t quite my style. But you probably knew that already. 🙂
