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January 09, 2006
Note
I opened the first page of my new journal today and I picked up my trusty old Parker fountain pen and …and…and put the pen down again.
The crispy, clean, fresh white pages just sat there.
I tried again. Nothing.
I contacted my muse:
“I have a brand-spanking-new journal,” I said.
“What was wrong with the last one?” came the reply.
“I filled it.”
“With what?”
“With YOUR crazy ideas,” I said. “It’s full. Kaput. Finished. Done.”
“Oh.”
“What do you mean, oh?”
“It’s an expression of mild surprise.”
“Oh really. I never knew that.”
“So, what’s the problem with the new journal?”
“There is no problem.”
“Well…?”
“Actually, I don’t know how to start. You know. Like what to put on the first page.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, I just don’t want to start off on the wrong foot.”
“Then try using your hand.”
“Very funny.”
“Okay. Stare at the paper and tell me what comes to mind.”
“What comes to mind is sitting in the art class at school and the art teacher telling me I wasn’t talented enough to draw.”
“Was he?
“Was he what?”
“Was HE talented.”
“I don’t know. I never saw his work.”
“Exactly! So relax and enjoy your problem.”
“Okay.”
“And start with the cover…”
And I did.
And I enjoyed every second of it
And I recommend it highly.
And if you yourself don’t keep a journal or a scrapbook or a diary or some secret notes or a list of things to do before you expire, please give it a go. You’ll be mildly surprised at how expressing yourself with words or sketches or stamps or collage will bring a little more sunshine into your life. Even in winter.
Posted by trevor at January 9, 2006 08:56 PM
Comments
Okay, duely impressed! Looking at videos with elementary in mind and I was laughing aloud. Then, I spent probably 20 minutes learning lyrics to 'No Tengas Miedo' listening to it over and over. (Actually, listening again as I type now. :)
Now, more impressed with the nature of your blog. Let's just say that two of the videos really hit home for me, an adult, at a time when I needed them. I've been blogging now for 4 months and the writing has made a world of difference. Thanks for the videos, the music, and the example to young students as a writer putting his pen where his 'mouth' is. Ha! I'm pushing the vids now (not wanting kickback :) at some schools I'm involved with. Good job Trevor.
Peace.
Posted by: H Martin at January 10, 2006 11:58 AM
Thanks, Trevor. Just the words i needed to read today.
Posted by: Nicole Raisin Stern at January 10, 2006 05:43 PM
Trevor -
I thought I was the only one who had these extended talks with myself. Oh, it was with your muse? Hmm ;)
Your blog has become a very warm retreat for me. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and all these great sketches.
Posted by: Wendee at January 23, 2006 09:18 AM