Recently, however, I happened across the following idea:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/363736107375506254/
The link shows a picture of plain white candles wrapped in whole cinnamon sticks and tied together into a bow with rustic twine. The photo of the candles inspired me; I could almost smell the cinnamon, see the Christmas tree in the living room, feel the snow falling outside a frosted window. Overwhelmed by the sensory appeal, I immediately wrote up a list of supplies I would need to complete this project. As I worked I struggled to follow exactly what the picture told me to do, not daring to deviate. I stacked, wrapped, and tied. I re-did one of the candles. Afterwards, stepping back to admire my work, I noticed many flaws when compared to the picture. At first I was disappointed in myself, feeling I had failed yet another attempt at creativity. Then I realized, however, that I had not failed, I had simply made it my own. Although it was not the exact same thing that was shown in the picture, my result was of my creation, therefore making it unique and special to me.
When the Maker Space class first started this semester, I was nervous about my lack of ability to create. I figured I would be the only one who did not have brilliant ideas flowing out of me, or who could not seem to create the perfect piece of creativity. Then I thought back to the candles I had made, and felt confident. That project taught me that I do not have to be perfect, and my work does not have to be flawless; if it comes from me then it is creativity in itself. All I need to worry about is improving myself and making something wonderful out of a mistake, not comparing my abilities to the abilities of others.
Your use of imagery is brilliant! I like how you talk about your project in a way that makes the reader feel as if they can see you making. I also like how you concluded your story with a take away.
ReplyDeleteI love the way you spoke about your own experience not being a failure, but just a way of making your own creation. The link is a really cool idea, would try and do it myself (DIY) hahahaha. Nice work on the vocabulary and imagery when explaining how the creation made you feel, it transported me to christmas time!
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas in here. You don't need to be perfect. I sometimes think that the letting go of that concept of perfect would fix a lot about the world. Your example is very illustrative, and lovely writing.
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