To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough that you want to enhance its beauty, you want to bring a little more music to it, a little more poetry to it, a little more dance to it. Osho
In Grade 1, I was first introduced to the children’s literature author – Robert Munsch. Every afternoon, my teacher had designated story time for the classroom. With enthusiasm, I would run to the reading circle, and wait patiently for a story to be read. The narratives of Robert Munsch always evoked such delight at a young age. There was one particular story called “The Paper Bag Princess” that had hidden messages of self-love and empowerment.
At the tender age of 6, I felt my imagination was being expanded. Everyday we heard tales to enhance our vision. Although I was still learning how to read, I was drawn to literature. Hearing something daily elevated my spirit. My mind would visualize all characters and was swept away. As an adult, I reflect on the importance of “story time”. It was tapping into that creative genius, we all have within us.
The Story:
The Paper Bag Princess is about an unconventional Princess named Elizabeth. She is to be married to Prince Ronald. Prior to the nuptials, this feisty lass ends up being held captive by a dragon. While in the castle, she patiently awaits her Prince Charming to come and rescue her. Twist to the plotline – the protagonist ends up misleading the dragon and saving herself. She encourages the dragon to fly and use up all its energy. A little heroine in the making. The Prince see’s Elizabeth, wrapped up in a paper bag, unlike the usual Princess attire. Upon seeing this, Ronald criticizes Elizabeth and chooses not to marry her. Her reaction – she calls Ronald a “bum”. Lo and behold, life takes a new direction for Elizabeth.
Celebrate who you are in your deepest heart. Love yourself and the world will love you. Amy Leigh Mercree
Why am I sharing the story of The Paper Bag Princess? I recently read it again, and it sparked something inside me. There was a message I needed to receive. First and foremost, it was a nudge from the universe to remember how much I love to write. To keep writing, honour that creative genius even if my articles are not published. Secondly, the reminder of self-love and empowerment. You are in charge of our life. Similar to Elizabeth, you empower yourself daily by the choices you make and the company you surround yourself with.
In children’s books, there is always insight for adults. It was a blessing to acknowledge the importance of self-love. This was not your usual Fairy Tale ending but perhaps one many can relate to. Elizabeth creates her own happiness, and dances towards the sunset – the light.
What sparks your creative flow? Is it travelling, journaling, cooking, singing or writing? There are multiple avenues that will continually speak to your spirit. Perhaps its numbers or gardening that make you tap into your higher self. Whatever it may be, I ask you to keep discovering more about yourself. You could be the next Picasso, Einstein or Vivaldi!
The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination. Albert Einstein
The more you are in tune with your creativity, you allow parts of yourself to expand. Your brain creates new pathways when you are in this flow of energy. When you are in that space of creativity, you are receiving wisdom beyond yourself. Channel that inspiration into what makes you feel euphoric. The hobbies you have are here for a greater purpose. These are you innate gifts. Your task is to do this daily. Allot time to do what makes you feel empowered.
How can you expand on your creativity:
- Visualize, see how you want your day to unfold
- Journal – appreciate where you are in life today
- Create, this could be drawing, doing a DIY project or anything that puts you in a state of equilibrium
- Have fun, play, be in joy as much as possible
- Ask yourself how can you be service with your creative talents
The Paper Bag Princess, reflected on the theme of self-love. The relationship you have with yourself is connected to your heart. As you love yourself, this energy is felt outwardly. Knowing your creativity is endless. You may be the most effective communicator, designer, builder or entrepreneur. There are ceaseless possibilities being birthed by you. Remember to trust, you have known all along what ignites that inner flame. Make time for the life you have always imagined. Your creativity is asking you to reach beyond yourself. Never stop learning, at any point in time your life can change.
Butterfly Spirit! 