To my fellow creative professionals, I write this as a reminder of why we do what we do.
It begins with a spark, that ignites a fire within. It may come from a compelling conversation or a moment of reflection. The idea is good! It takes hold and refuses to let go. Your scalp tingles and your chest swells. You don’t know how yet, but you know this idea needs to come to life.
Your excitement inspires others. Many rally to help. Creative minds and caring hearts unite. The idea transforms. It becomes something unique… Something beautiful… Something fragile. Then you realize something profound. The idea is not yours. It does not belong to you or anyone else. It belongs only to itself, and your role shifts from creator to protector.
The idea encounters opposing forces and they test you. A struggle begins and a dance ensues between idealism, politics and emotions. It is messy. It is human. Some loose faith, some even break. You question everything even as you fight for the idea. In the hardest moments you understand faith in new ways. And once it has taken all you have, if you are lucky, you witness a miracle as the idea finally takes form.
It enters the world. It resonates with an energy all it’s own and you observe the observers as they look upon it. For the first time they see what you have seen all along. Your heart warms and your mind quiets. You breath deeply knowing that the struggle was neither in vain, nor for the sake of vanity. And you, the creator, the protector, can finally let go and start again.