The Soul Tells A Story: Engaging Creativity With Spirituality In The Writing Life

by Wright, Vinita Hampton

• ISBN13: 9780830832316
• ISBN10: 0830832319
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2005-05-05
• Publisher: Intervarsity Pr

Summary

There is a reason artists tend to feel a sense of the sacred in their work. It's the same reason those on the path of spiritual formation find that creative exercises lead them into a deeper, more authentic experience with God. Creative work is soul work, and soul work is always creative work. Feeding one while neglecting the other will leave you restless and unsatisfied. Nurturing them both will lead you to new places of self-discovery and God-discovery."I believe that spirituality and creativity are intricately connected, yet they are rarely nurtured and talked about that way," contends Vinita Hampton Wright. In these pages she leads you through the process and practice of integrating the worlds of Christian spirituality and creativity.You will find both inspiration and practical help forembracing the life that chooses youunderstanding the spiritual process of creativityfacing the self you have to deal withcomprehending the relationship of sexuality to both art and souldeveloping a supportive community for your workthriving as a creative person in the real worldThe Soul Tells a Storyhelps you to turn frustrated longings into satisfying growth.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	9	(2)
A Word About Beginnings	11	(4)
The Heart-Stopping Act of Saying Yes
What to Expect When You Embrace Creative Callings	15	(30)
The Journey of Creative Formation
How to Approach Your Gifts with Faith and Intention	45	(16)
The Practices That Engage the Process
What It Means to Participate with Mystery and Muse	61	(30)
The Various Ways We Tap the Well
Where to Search for Material and Inspiration	91	(30)
The Balance That Leads to Greatness
How to Craft but Not Control While Using Both Sides of the Brain	121	(20)
The Community That Counts
When You Need Support and Where to Find It	141	(26)
The Self You Must Face
Where Your Gifts Begin and Where You Must Return	167	(22)
The Beauty and Danger of a Creative Life
Why the Wonder Brings Darkness with It	189	(40)
The Home Built in Exile
How to Thrive as a Creative in the Real World	229	(22)
Appendix: Using This Book with a Group	251	(6)
Resources	257	(3)
About the Author	260