As a language arts teacher I am constantly encouraging my students to look for inspiration in the world around them. Of course, my pubescent students generally respond to my enthusiastic encouragements with blank stares, but, nonetheless, I encourage them to be inspired.
So where does inspiration come from? As a lover of language and the arts, my immediate response is EVERYWHERE!
Whether writing a paper (cue grumblings from said students) or creating and modifying those Pinterest-inspired or completely unique ideas we all glean inspiration from someone who posted it somewhere after creating something.
But, if you're like me and my students, inspiration doesn't always come easily.
That's right, I admit that there are times in the midst of a project where I draw a creative blank. What do I do now? How do I get those creative juices flowing? Look for ways to be inspired.
When I need inspiration for writing I journal and read. A lot. And I mean constantly. My journals are filled with words detailing of my private thoughts and desires, sermons I've heard, to-do lists, lyrics to songs, my response to personal devotions, and quotes gleaned from books and movies. I read everything from grocery store fliers to YA novels (shameless plug: check out http://cover2coverreadon.blogspot.com/ to read my thoughts on a variety of books) to blogs and articles posted and shared on facebook.
Then I write. I write whatever comes to mind. Random thoughts, rabbit trails, and theological statements, quotations from others (be sure to cite your source). Before I know it, my words are forming cohesive thought and my fingers struggle to keep up with the words pouring from my mind.
The world is full of inspiration: from the books and articles you read to the actions you experience and witness, you are never cut off from inspiration. Inspiration attacks your five senses as you see, smell, hear, taste, touch, and experience the world. So open your eyes! Breathe in deeply and be inspired! You may be surprised to find where your inspiration will lead you.
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