Expression

We hear a lot about self-expression, and free expression.  Expression is about presenting an aspect of ourselves to others.

Writing, art, music, a play or movie, jewelry, crafts, dance, sports, these all can be an expression of our inner selves. 

When we choose a thing that someone has already done to represent ourselves, that's easily enough done.  We read certain books, look at certain types of art, listen to certain types of music, etc.

Expressing our own ideas is a little harder.  First of all, you have to know what your ideas are.  Then you have to draw on your experiences to decide how you want to best express your ideas.  Inevitably, sometimes, people will not get, or will misunderstand your ideas.  That's where the hard part comes in.  If someone doesn't like, or doesn't get, your idea.  That can be a real kick in the ego, or can make you feel like your idea isn't good enough.

Just let me say this, your idea, is always good enough.  The most that you might need to do, is to polish it to make it presentable to others.  A human mind is a marvel, and the reflection of the mind of God.  Any good idea is good enough.  Now, if your idea is something homicidal, or criminal, I recommend you get some help.  But, seriously, don't let anyone discourage you from expressing your own ideas.

I was censured in my own family.  My father and mother didn't understand me, because I admit that I was a very precocious child, and I was told before family gatherings not to speak to people because I said "weird" things.  Things such as "What would you say if you could talk to God?", "Why did Jesus die for people if we're all so bad?", and "Why do people have to be in bodies?".  My parents really were embarrassed that I would dare ask such questions.  Therefore, it was taught to me that my way of expressing my ideas, and my ideas themselves, were not o.k.  I didn't tell anyone anything I thought for a very long time, from the age of ten to probably twenty-four.

Eventually, as an adult I started to share my stories, art and crafts with others, and got mostly praise.  It seemed that I did have some good ideas after all!  I've had three poems published, have sold a couple of my paintings, and have sold a lot of my jewelry.  I have publishers waiting on my book, and subscribers to my newsletters and feeds.  It took me a long time to feel like my ideas were good enough, but I finally got there.

The best thing that you can use to express your ideas, is confidence.  If you know it's a good idea, let others know, too!  Tell them, "I think that this is a good idea because...(fill in with your own reasons)".  You might need to get some coaching, or attend a confidence builder seminar, to find your voice, but it's worth it.

Once you are out there in the big, wide, world expressing your own ideas, you'll start to realize just how wonderful Creator has made you.  (And you were His idea!  Think about that before you naysay anyone's idea!)

Once you can express yourself and your ideas, you have found your voice.  If you read a certain author, or listen to a certain musician, you will start to get a feel for their "style".  Once you are familiar enough with yourself and your ideas, you will find your own voice, or "style".

So, go out there, express your ideas to the world, and make your voice be heard.  You never know just who's listening!

Until next time!

Rev. Angelia Schwarz-Coleman, CDCP
Works of Heart-Women's Ministry, Outreach & Education
Healing Families' Lives, Inc.
www.healingfamilieslives.bravesites.com
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