Soul Fire

by Ryan, Thomas

• ISBN13: 9781594732430
• ISBN10: 1594732434
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2008-01-01
• Publisher: Skylight Paths Pub

Summary

Creative energy is inherent in each of us, burning like a fire deep within our souls. By ignoring it, you risk extinguishing your creative spirit and disconnecting from an aspect of your self that gives life?s pursuits and relationships meaning. But fuel it and you unlock the secret to lifelong spiritual vitality and regeneration.This inspiring guide shows you how to cultivate your creative spirit, particularly in the second half of life, as a way to encourage personal growth, enrich your spiritual life, and deepen your communion with God. It explores the nature of creativity and why it is important to give expression to your creative energy regardless of your age and stage in life. Each chapter provides questions for reflection to help you identify your creative energy, overcome your insecurities, and connect with your chosen method for expression. Practical exercises at the end of each chapter help you awaken your creative spirit within. Learn how to:Be True to Your Deepest SelfOpen Up Space for Your Creative EnergiesDevelop Your CreativityTap Your Creative PotentialListen to Your LongingWhether you are drawn to painting, dancing, music, cooking, writing or sculpting, novices and experts alike will be challenged by this invigorating call to set free your creative potential.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Bellows and Coals	p. vii
The Third Birth	p. 1
The Urgency of Midlife	p. 1
The Stakes Are High	p. 5
Reconnecting with Creative Energy	p. 10
Embracing the Shadow	p. 12
The Secret to Staying Fully Alive	p. 15
Questions for Reflection	p. 20
Exercises to Access Your Creativity	p. 21
The Nature of Creativity	p. 23
We All Have It	p. 23
Transformation of the Ordinary	p. 26
Life Itself Is a Creative Act	p. 29
Questions for Reflection	p. 35
Exercises to Access Your Creativity	p. 35
Your Creative Journey	p. 37
A Creative Journey Road Map	p. 37
Personal Glimpses	p. 38
Shoots of Creativity	p. 46
Questions for Reflection	p. 51
Exercise to Access Your Creativity	p. 51
Four Paths to Develop Your Creativity	p. 53
Come to Your Senses	p. 55
Visit Your Special Places	p. 60
Discover Your Music	p. 69
Seek Inspiration from Others	p. 73
Questions for Reflection	p. 77
Exercises to Access Your Creativity	p. 77
Four Practices to Tap into Your Creative Potential	p. 81
Listen to Your Longings	p. 83
Have Your Own Experience	p. 87
Work the Edge of Your Comfort Zone	p. 92
Surrender to the Adventure	p. 98
Questions for Reflection	p. 105
Exercises to Access Your Creativity	p. 106
Four Spiritual Gifts of Creativity	p. 109
Connecting with Your Creator	p. 110
Awakening More Fully to Life	p. 114
Unleashing the Power of Imagination	p. 121
Enjoying the Surprise of Grace	p. 124
Questions for Reflection	p. 131
Exercises to Access Your Creativity	p. 131
Conclusion: "Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying"	p. 133
Suggestions for Further Reading	p. 136
Acknowledgments	p. 138
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