The True Origin of Inspiration

Photo by wharman

Ever been inspired by a beautiful site? How about a riveting performance?

My question: is what you saw that which inspired you, or did it merely remind you of something deep within?

Inspiration is a composite of the words, “in spirit.” My belief is, that it isn’t what you saw, heard, or even felt which inspired you. On the contrary, these things merely helped you gain a glimpse of what lives within you. To make the connection.

I’ll never forget; one evening a few years ago, I was standing on the balcony of a towering cruise ship centered between the Bahamas and Florida. Quiet as could be on the open ocean. What struck me was the glowing moon illuminating a black body of infinite water. The brilliant full moon created a streak of light that coursed straight across the expanses. When my eyes met this wonder, I said to myself, “I have what it takes in life, to meet the challenges ahead.” We may not always be able to predict all the challenges that lay beyond the horizon — but we can rest assured — deep within us, resides a bottomless wellspring we can always draw from, if we choose.

Those occasions when we are face to face with profound experiences that make it easy for us to see the truth inside — are few and far between. Even more than this, we are sometimes in situations that preclude our ability to place ourselves into those inspirational settings (illness, injury or imprisonment could be one of many causes). It is for this reason, that we must learn how through our own volition, to dip our feet into the river of inspiration whenever we need to and whenever we want to. To mentally bypass the layers of fog to what resides within our own essence - the power to overcome.

By all means, immerse yourself at every opportunity in the things that inspire you - I know I do.

But, most paramount, always remember… You don’t need a legion of thunderous taiko drums playing in your midst, nor Irish bag pipes blasting before your feet to find the inspiration you seek. You only need look, within.

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