How do you express your inner soul through your hands and feet? Finding ways to tap into our inner selves and foster personal growth is essential. Engaging in creative expression through art, music, or writing can be a transformative journey that inspires us and helps us grow spiritually. In this article, we'll explore the incredible benefits of exploring creative outlets and how they can impact our lives. Artistic expression: Creativity knows no boundaries, and art is a universal language that allows us to communicate thoughts, emotions, and abstract ideas. From painting and sculpting to photography and digital design, engaging in artistic expression opens up possibilities. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, creating can be cathartic, promoting self-reflection and encouraging personal growth. I never thought of myself as an artist. The only painting I was any good at was on the walls or ceilings of our homes. When I was younger, I did paint by the number, but my progress would clearly be defined as arrested development, meaning I never improved. Don’t let your desire to create a masterpiece hold you back. Feel free to create for your own satisfaction and enjoyment. You can always hang it on the refrigerator if you are bold enough. Music as a channel: Music has a remarkable power to evoke emotions and stir our souls. It's no wonder that engaging in musical expression is often associated with spiritual enlightenment. Whether you enjoy playing an instrument, singing, or simply immersing yourself in the melodies of others, music can transport us to a realm where we find peace and inspiration. I am a musician. I play several instruments and know music's power to move the soul and lighten the heart. I also know that music can bring the creator out in you. When you play music, you are creating. Sometimes, the creation is a bit out of tune, but it is a sound coming from whatever instrument you play. You are never too old to learn to play something. Even if it is a simple recorder, you are creating something and will experience the joy that creation brings to your soul and maybe even to some friendly souls willing to listen to you grow in your music. Writing: Tapping into self-discovery: Writing is an incredible tool for exploring our deepest thoughts and emotions. Journaling, storytelling, or even blogging can be avenues for self-expression and self-discovery. Through the act of writing, we have the opportunity to reflect on our experiences, find clarity, and unleash our creativity. Moreover, sharing our writing with others can inspire and connect us with like-minded individuals. My writing came from COVID shutting down the hospice company I was working for. I wrote a handbook for the hospice group to use; as far as I know, it is still being published. When COVID hit, I looked for another outlet. I read God Calling forty years ago, and it has been a good spiritual companion. Jesus calling Came out, and I was also drawn to the words in this devotional. So, I sat down and started writing Spirit Calling to complete the trinitarian trilogy. Your writing doesn’t have to be professional; you can keep it between you and God. Healing and personal growth: Creative expression can profoundly impact our well-being. It offers an outlet for emotions, reduces stress, and encourages mindfulness and presence in the moment. Exploring our creative outlets fosters personal growth as we learn to express ourselves authentically, embrace vulnerability, and step out of our comfort zones. I was a pastor for over thirty years, including seven years as a district supervisor. I continued to stretch myself and broaden my comfort zone to the extent that feeling uncomfortable was the only comfort I knew. Writing on an international stage has even pushed my zone out further. Having a career as a pastor and now a writer, I think God has found new ways to help me grow beyond my imagination. Inspiration and finding purpose: Creativity ignites inspiration and helps us tap into our innate potential. When we engage in artistic endeavors, we often find ourselves in a state of flow where time seems to disappear, and the outside world fades away. In these moments, we can connect with our higher selves and discover a sense of purpose, driving us to pursue our passions and make a difference in the world. Writers call it, Being in the flow.” The words seem to be there with each stroke of the keyboard. I sometimes have four to six grandchildren running around the house, plus two Goldendoodle dogs. I am very aware of their presence, but if I am in the flow, I continue to tap in words from my keyboard to the computer screen. Sometimes I am amazed how much God can accomplish through me. Conclusion: Engaging in creative expression through art, music, or writing offers a gateway to inspiration and spiritual growth. By exploring our creative outlets, we can connect with our inner selves, cultivate mindfulness, and better understand our emotions and experiences. Whether picking up a paintbrush, playing an instrument, or writing in a journal, these creative pursuits can transform our lives and allow us to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Remember, creativity is meant to be enjoyed, so embrace your imagination, explore new possibilities, and let your creativity flow. I like to think of inspiration as “Being In Spirit.” Inspire or in spirit reminds me that a driving force within me comes directly from God. I am not always clear what the purpose is for all of this writing because, unlike preaching, I don’t get to see whose lives I am influencing. All I know is that I continue to write with a passion and purpose that I know is divinely inspired. No, you don’t have to be an ordained clergy to have this inspiration. The Holy Spirit is available to everyone to help express your inner spiritual soul. However you express your spirituality, it will come across better if you allow room for God to work in your life. Our greatest source of inspiration is God within us, waiting to help and inspire us to connect to the world.