Sources of inspiration for the writing path.

“Ideas ablaze, sparking creativity with embers that glow through the night.”

A source of writing inspiration for me occurs when I’m a better listener.

This heightened listening process isn’t just when another speaks, although that is important.

I apply this when I attend to my inner thoughts as well.

We become better listeners when we’re gathered in front of the reddish glow of a fire.

Candlelight, campfire, wood stove, fireplace, or beacons, these differentiated sources of light do not matter, but only the outcome that results from these lovely moments.

This is when our heart stories come out.

Our fears, dumb ideas, silly things, but deeper, too, than what our workday personas would typically reveal.

If we share these moments with others, this time becomes a a beautiful gift to one another.

If we are alone, know that many of the great minds in world history preferred their own company or were at least comfortable in their own company.

With warmth, comfort, but without agendas, these conversations held by firelight can bring out depths of truth that would not otherwise be possible, due to our time compressed lives that rewards busyness.

“Like an old glass coffee percolator, some of my most inspired moments take a while to heat up before coming to the surface.”

Keep handy scrap pieces of paper or a notebook.

Jot in shorthand and don’t worry about your handwriting.

Keep those good ideas you get and decide later to keep or throw away.

With your coffee cup in hand, review your notes.

If you have any ideas worth exploring, write them down on index cards.

If this quiet time doesn’t occur naturally, through intentional actions I schedule it.

If possible, take a walk in a park or wooded area first, before enjoying a fire and reviewing your ideas.

You’ll better appreciate the warmth.