"God does not give us more than we can handle," I am told but I wonder if God doesn't overestimate me just a little. Or perhaps, and this is likely, I underestimate God.
I grew up in what you might call a relentlessly creative household. We were given art supplies, music supplies... Our mother knew enough to get us started and then stand back and not meddle. My parents never said to us, 'Don't you think you'll need something to fall back on?' They acted as though creativity was completely normal.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the importance of fostering creativity in children without imposing limitations or doubts on their artistic pursuits.
In this quote, Julia Cameron reflects on her upbringing in a household that celebrated creativity and artistic expression. Rather than suggesting that she should have a backup plan, her parents encouraged her and her siblings to explore their creative talents freely, thus instilling in them the belief that creativity is a fundamental aspect of life. This nurturing environment allowed them to develop their artistic abilities without the fear of judgment or societal expectations, illustrating the profound impact that parental support can have on a child's creative journey.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about education methods, one could reference this quote to advocate for more creative freedom in schools.
More from Julia Cameron
All quotes →When it was suggested that I write a memoir I said, 'I'm not old enough. I'm not distinguished enough.' But I went home and sat down to write, and the material for the book just came flooding into my hands.
... success or failure, the truth of a life really has little to do with its quality. The quality of life is in proportion, always, to the capacity for delight. The capacity for delight is the gift of paying attention.
While there is no quick fix for instant, pain-free creativity, creative recovery (or discovery) is a teachable, trackable spiritual process. Each of us is complex and highly individual, yet there are common recognizable denominators to the creative recovery process.
In limits, there is freedom. Creativity thrives within structure. Creating safe havens where our children are allowed to dream, play, make a mess and, yes, clean it up, we teach them respect for themselves and others.
In order to have a real relationship with our creativity, we must take the time and care to cultivate it.
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