Contrition & Creativity

Mardi Gras is over—and religious tradition would have us enter a season of abstinence. One day we’re self-indulgent—the next, contrite. I claim no conventional religion, but recognize the symbolism of this liturgical rite. It’s probably the basis for religion’s existence in the first place. When we’re bad (whatever that means in our particular culture) we feel remorseful and want to feel good again. Religions proclaim the fix for this most basic human dilemma.

So what does this have to do with creativity, you’re sure to be asking? Consider my premise…

Mardi Gras & Creativity

I once had a soul mate from whom I learned the essence of life—celebration. This invigorated soul revered life and took every opportunity to celebrate all its aspects—both pleasant and unpleasant. I learned that celebration—another form of creativity—has its place in happiness as well as in sorrow.

Mardi Gras and similar celebrations have for centuries preceded a time of contrition. Both are part of life’s cycle—as are a time to be born and a time to die.

My advice is to celebrate today via your preference of sensual delights. Today’s designated as a day of indulgence. Don’t worry; its balancing offset will certainly arrive soon enough. Embrace both!

Happy Mardi Gras!

Celebration

Birthdays and anniversaries are designated times to celebrate life—and, to consider and reevaluate our circumstances. I recently experienced one of these landmark days.

As I take this opportunity to consider and reevaluate my circumstances, it occurs to me that I, perhaps, already consider and reevaluate much more than necessary—and certainly more than I celebrate. This particular consideration concerns me—and warrants further consideration…

So…I’m celebrating for awhile—and for the same while, letting go of the obsessive consideration-and-reevaluation part. For awhile, I’m getting with friends, having second glasses of wine, taking time to enjoy my meals, and generally getting out of my routines.

I wonder if this will result in a net gain in demeanor—and situation.


Resources

Refer to previous posts for further reference and supporting concepts.
http://www.e-hhw.com/