Selfless.


19

Selfless.



The very fact that most involved in creative arts of any kind tend to spend much of their time working alone can lead to becoming self-centred. The very act of creating, whether in wood or paint or wool much time is spent on the inner thoughts required to complete any work.

Great care has to be taken that such self-centred activity does not slip into selfish thinking. Easily and without much thought, the artist can slip into striving to be perfect not only in the work but in other ways also. Showing not our true selves but a fake.

The Tao Te Ching counsels against such action and behaviour. Instead of being selfish we are urged to be selfless. Stop trying to prove anything simply pursue your creative purpose to the best of your ability. Doing this will not only be better for the self but will be good for all those who surround us.

The very nature of creativity calls for us to put ourselves on show. Every artist knows that when they display the work of their hands, they are at the same time putting some of themselves on show. It is a very short step from this to either boasting or showing how clever we are, or on the other hand showing not our true selves but a fake you.

Again, the sage advises that to find the true self, the true artist, it is wise to be your true self. To find simplicity, cast aside selfishness and become selfless. Desire less and simply be.

In this way, your inner being, and your creative spirit will be as one and you and your art and life will flourish.






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