Emerging Courageous Newsletter
Marilyn Dixon Pfanstiel, Editor
Volume 1, Issue 17, April 1, 2003

Creativity
For the last several weeks, I have been attending a Donovan Scholar's Art Class. These are free classes offered by the University of Kentucky for Senior Citizens (over age 60). The classes meet at various locations in the community during the school semester and this one happens to meet at our church.

When I was as old as I can remember, I loved to draw. Since most of the time when I was in elementary school, it was a great way to pass the time in class to draw when I was bored with the classroom instructions. Therefore, I was reprimanded for "not paying attention" because I was "playing" instead of studying. Drawing was described by my parents as a waste of time, a frivolous activity.   I was not encourage with this endeavor as "drawing is a hobby, you can't make a living at it." I did manage to take one art class in high school and another one in college as an elective. I liked realism in art and the college instructors were more into "modern art"... contemporary work. So I got back to my studies and put my pleasurable leisure activity behind me.

Through our church newsletter, I read about the art classes offered at church. I was needing a change of pace so I decided to inquire about them. When I found out these art classes were free, and on my day off (so I wasn't taking time away from work), I decided to rekindle that love of drawing that I have had since childhood and "Go for it!" Since the very first day of class, I have been tapping into my creativity, experimenting with watercolor paints, just playing and having FUN! I am excited, enthusiastic and plain happy about the art classes. Since I started, I have gone on and taken some full day workshops which really stimulated my interest. Meeting others enjoying this activity spurred me on. And, now it is acceptable to "play" in my spare time. That is one luxury of getting older...you have time to do the things you always wanted to do and never had time. So I am making time to do what I want to do, using dormant talents long hidden away and suppressed, and enjoying "Life".

I would like to encourage you to take time to develop that interest you have always had and never took the time to pursue. You will reap the rewards by enriching your life and the lives of others around you. You will be much happier and your enthusiasm will rub off on others. Be Creative! Enjoy life! Have Fun! Nourish Your Soul!

*Don't forget to share your ideas on what you do to Nourish Your Soul with Emerging Courageous online Magazine readers. http://www.geocities.com/emergingcourageous/page12.htm

Inspirational Quote:
"We have within us all that we need." Mary Greene

Delightful Bumper Sticker:
"Don't give up on me, God's not through with me yet."