“Artists must be sacrificed to their art. Like bees, they must put their lives into the sting they give.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

I’ve had the privilege of knowing or working with talented artists–musicians, writers, and painters–and they are all living testaments to Emerson’s point. I am, too. Chances are, you feel it as well in the hours of obscurity when no one else sees the drops of blood and pain, all from the experiences you bring to the table, that mix with the ink on the page and then become something new.

Art that is not born of some sacrifice typically moves no one. And if that’s our aim, to move people, then a bit of ourselves must be chiseled off and allowed to fall into the mix. Like a bit of yeast that works through the entire batch that sliver of humanity, your experiences and your story, is what will resonate with others because it confirms their own experience.

Not everyone is willing to go that distance. Not everyone should or can. But for those who were made to create there is simply no other way.

At the moment I hate running. The only redeeming value I see in it is that I’m learning some lessons about writer’s block that maybe will help someone. I hope.

Now, understand, I’m not a natural runner. I’ve never really liked it or understood why people are fascinated with endlessly pounding asphalt for mile upon mile upon mile. The only time I used to kind of like running was when I lived in Colorado and could do it in the mountains on winding trails. That was at least a little engaging because I had tree roots and mountain bikers to dodge, and endless views. Not so in Nashville.

But despite my disdain for running I’ve begun hitting the road in the morning with my neighbor, Kevin. (Yes, he’s really my neighbor and his name really is Kevin. He’s one of three Kevin’s on our block. It’s a cosmic anomaly, I know.). And thanks to my newfound hobby, I’ve learned a few painful lessons that apply to the writer’s life. Learn from my pain, dear friends, because something good has to come from my early mornings. Continue Reading

I’ve mentioned Blaine Hogan a couple times already in the past week, but for good reason. A few things he’s shared with me have really set my wheels turning. This video is one of them. Lean in close, take it in, and see what happens.

BEHOLD THE DREAMER COMETH from blaine hogan on Vimeo.