Do You Hear What I Hear?

You hear people, artists specifically, talk about the muse. The voice that beckons a writer to write, a painter to paint, a musician to compose, a creative to create, it is a real thing. Some attribute it to the universe, or the voice of one’s own conscience, but being a believer in my triune God, I attribute that voice to the Holy Spirit.

The voice is not audible. I’m not hearing the voice literally. It’s more like an overwhelming thought that weighs on the mind in a way that’s not burdensome. The weight is manageable. It’s actually the perfect weight. Not too light as to be dismissed and not so heavy that one evades it. It’s like the first time on roller-skates, slippery, unsteady, yet exciting and full of potential — you could exit the rink and turn in the skates, but what fun would that be? Plus you have an overwhelming, inexplicable sense that you can do what’s required.

That’s the voice, for me at least.

I just completed a major project, a short film. It may be small potatoes to some of you but for me it was life-changing. The voice was very clear through every step of the process. It was one of the few times in my life, other than parenting, where I was fully invested, not missing a beat, locked in and confident, and surrounded by people who were supposed to be there, to collaborate and progress together. Like a divine appointment. I trusted at every turn. It was truly beautiful.

Now it’s time to tackle the next project.

Let’s strap on those skates again!