Motivating Creativity

Written by: Danielle Clayton

Written literature has been a way for people to communicate through words. For a very long-time storytelling has united people all over the world. Not long after, people have turned to other ways to tell their story like dance, music and visual art. Technological advancements as have made many methods of getting the word out even greater. Being able to share our thoughts and ideas have given voices to those who were never heard. I believe it’s important to be open minded to those voice because they have something to say. Now, I will admit that not all the things’ people say are good, encouraging or empowering to communities. For the one that are we are here to listen. I have learned that even if you think no one is listening some one hears you. YOUR WORDS-YOUR STORY, MATTERS.

I spent a good percentage of my childhood writing poetry to express how I feel. I turned to writing stories in my teenage years and painting and drawing in my early adulthood. Though I’m still young and have a lot of to learn I will continue to tell your story, express my creativity and share it with the world. Cause as I’ve said someone hear me. This is a poem I wrote when I was in middle school that I will remember forever because it means a lot to me:

Ghost in Disguise

I stand alone,

In an Open crowd,

Don’t know what to do,

I speak but not heard,

I’m a ghost in disguise,

I’m in my own world,

I scream and shout,

With no way out,

I’m a ghost in disguise,

I hide in plain sight,

But oh what a fright,

For I am never heard,

Because of this,

I shall not speak,

No more spoken words,

For I am a ghost,

A silent ghost,

I’m A Ghost in Disguise.

In 2020 I decided to take my words to the canvas. I started painting as a way to cope during Covid-19. I was in the beginning stage of my healing journey after being trapped for so long in my trauma. Not being able to leave my house became a never-ending cycle isolation, my depression, anxiety and PTSD took a turn for the worst. Having survived suicide attempt and suicide attempt I was struggling to cope more and more every day. Painting and drawing became an outlet along with writing. I painted this picture, and learned not to blame myself for the actions of others:

I painted this one as a reminder to why I need to continue to fight for my life:

The best this about someone’s story is it tells life from a different perspective. You can learn a lot about someone just my listening. Most people struggle in life, even the rich. I have learned that money does not eliminate the burden of life’s struggles, it just changes the perspective. I also believe that giving back to others can help them tell their story. Judging the situation of another because it is different isn’t a good thing. Those people have a story to tell and it important to listen. Now, not everyone has the opportunity to be able to tell their story verbally but there are ways to understand them if you pay attention. You don’t have to; the choice is yours. But for those that choose to, I thank you. Your ability to listen and empathize with people is what makes this world a better place.

With that being said, TELL YOUR STORY. In words, in art, in action. We are here to listen. Happy Sharing, I love you.

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