Soul Fire: Accessing Your Creativity

by Thomas Ryan

Trust the Creativity within You―Then Get Out of Its Way “[This] is the invitation of the inner creative you are created to create. The creative potential within you is one of the things that makes you ‘in the image and likeness of God.’ Whether your medium be music, watercolors, clay, gardening, woodworking, writing, cooking, dance or voice, the Creator has gifted you with creativity. Your gift in return is to use it.”
―from the Conclusion This inspiring guide shows you how to cultivate your creative spirit, particularly in the second half of life, as a way to encourage personal growth, enrich your spiritual life and deepen your communion with God. Each chapter provides questions for reflection to help you identify your creative energy, overcome your insecurities, and connect with your chosen method of expression. Practical exercises at the end of each chapter help you awaken your creative spirit within. Whether you’re a novice or expert; young adult, middle age or golden age; you will be challenged by this invigorating call to set free your creative potential.

Genres: Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2008

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short book about creativity. There were a few passages/sections that I connected with and that gave me food for thought, but overall I found it fell a bit flat. I liked best when he was sharing his own thoughts on what creativity is and how to let it emerge; I didn't connect as well with the anecdotes, of which there were quite a few. Also, a good percentage of the book is his own poetry. I've always had a hard time connecting with poetry and this was no exception.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings on this one. I enjoyed the first two chapters. One of my favorite passages:

"When we are not true to our deepest, creative selves, we risk becoming dissatisfied with life, depressed. We may come to feel that nothing we do really matters or is worth the effort, and a dark cloud of meaninglessness can descend upon us. It is at this point that some begin to consume more alcohol or spend more time sitting in front of the mindless entertainment on television. As the years roll on, some even come to hate themselves for wasting their time and talents, for not paying attention to the fire within.”

I am not a poetry person so being bombarded by the authors original work every 2 or 3 pages was a bit distracting for me. Yes, I get that was the point of the book but it is not my preferred vehicle of expression.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you know what creativity is? Where it comes from? This book answers those questions, and help you identify your creativity with exercises at the conclusion of each chapter. Ryan's poetry is a wonderful addition and a treat to read. I recommend this book to everyone.

[Jeneve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Four Paths to Develop Your Creativity:
-come to your senses
-visit your special place
-discover your music
-seek inspiration from others

Tap Into Your Creative Potential:
-listen to your longings
-have your own experience
-work the edge of your comfort zone
-surrender to the adventure

[Gineen · Rating 4 out of 5]

i skipped around a bit, it didn't captivate me, but i think its a good book, i did appreciate some chapters a lot.