Creativity--Bits and Pieces

MOVEMENT IN TIME AND SPACE    © EB 1993, 2005

My father is ninety, active, positive and vibrant.  When I asked him how he deals with old age, he said, "Don't think about it."

Last night I thought about it. 

When folks get old, remembering can be one of the things they do best.  Milk in bulbous glass bottles with thick cream at the top, swing sets at the park, brick paths and ivy-covered walls, the Good Humor truck's musical arrival bringing a moment of refreshment from the beastly afternoon sun, the permeating smell of early morning coffee and toast at grandma's, blue and white Staffordshire china, the grandfather's clock ticking in the hall, light from the street lamp creating flickering night-time characters and fantasies across bedroom walls--all food for thought. 

Old age is similar to adolescence--a transition time--a time for mentoring filled with dramatic changes.  At one point, I gave workshops around the country and had a gallery.  My fifteen minutes of fame was then, not now.  Now, is quiet, peaceful, and pleasant.  

Recently I wrote an email to an acquaintance stating that he is miles ahead of me with his writing.  That is not entirely true.  This journal helps me to pull the bits and pieces of my life together.  So, although, that person may be constructing chapters, I too am building a book--a tome* filled with joy, pictures, and play.  Words, sentences, paragraphs and images are more than hollow outlines, research and boring organization.  Instead, I choose to see a  live manuscript in process...appearing  moment by moment, piece by piece, word by word.  (This is my Seed Journal. There is a hidden clause that reads:  To Be Edited and Revised Later.)

Yesterday I didn't set a goal for today.  Last night I realized I need goals--short and long-term--to be completed, checked off, achieved.  Today I will think about this Journal.  What shall it contain?  How can it be helpful?  The possibilities are endless.  There could be weekly features with snatches of "wisdom" thrown in,  a column called "Remember When," a "Question Corner," "Helpful Hints," A Quotation A Day" much more.  I do so love layout and design...can't wait to get started!  

Oh, last week I designed a shingle for one my main mystery characters. Had a grand time creating that fictional prop.  By the way, she likes the sign and immediately hung it outside her 250-year old home in the Berkshires.  Maybe I will share that image with you later. 

* a tome means a book, or a volume

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