Lately, I’ve been reflecting on some long-held beliefs, trying to think more broadly and consider different perspectives about things I’ve been “sure” about up until now…

Inspiration is something I gravitate towards, as both a concept and a lived experience. I’ve felt certain that inspiration is necessary for me. With that said, is the need for inspiration a universal truth? I wonder:

-What qualifies as inspiration?

-Is inspiration truly necessary to feel fulfilled? To live a meaningful life? To be happy? 

-Or, is feeling inspired an oft-used cliche? 

-Is life too hard to feel inspired? 

I also did a bit of research to test out what I thought that I knew about inspiration:

Origin: Inspirare – Latin -to breathe life into…

I didn’t know that this was the root…to breathe life into…something elemental to wellbeing. Life force…now that’s something to remember.

More references: (from languages that I’m familiar with)

*Inspire– English- To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something; to motivate, encourage 

*Inspirar – Spanish – To motivate, encourage, awaken a feeling 

*ներշնչել (ner-shnchel) – Armenian -to breath into (here it is again)

Now, I’m curious:

·         What does it truly feel like, in the body, when something or someone breathes life into it? What are the actual physical sensations?

·         What and who breathes life into me?

·         Into what and whom do I breathe life?

Some things will be more readily identifiable. Others may be more subtle and take time to recognize. But, in the end, we all need to breathe. Maybe you can ask yourself these questions too and see what you discover.

PS For more art journaling reflections, my book Diary of a Curly Top, Reflections Through Art is available on Amazonat  https://a.co/d/51OjEws