Weaving the Web of Creativity
I used to be really afraid of spiders! Yes, I was actually guilty of stepping on them, squishing them, swatting them, anything to make sure they wouldn’t be around for a ‘next’ encounter. And, I have always been the one in our family who seems to have numerous daily ‘encounters’ with these creepy crawlers.
Long ago, I decided to read about spiders (and all animals) in the book Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews and Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams. I realized everything is here for a reason. Yes, even (ick!!) spiders. I learned from these books that often when an animal, and even a spider, crosses your path, there is a reason. According to Medicine Cards, when the spider crosses your path, you are to . . . “dance your dreams alive . . . create from your heart’s bliss . . . weave the web you want to live.” Hmm . . . interesting . . . a meaningful message in the form of a spider? What was I to think of this? I could use a bit of dancing in my life. I had forgotten that my most creative moments come when I am in a state of bliss. And what is this about creating the way I want to live?!!
When working late one night in my studio, I had a brief encounter. A spider. Now what? Should I sweep him aside? Should I . . . no I couldn’t squash him . . . because . . . after all, couldn’t that be squashing my own creativity?!! I first noticed him with a swift movement from the corner of my eye. My work table was filled with bits and pieces of past projects. I sat there for a moment wondering if it was me who was invading his space. I continued to work on my design as he explored most of the tabletop. I thought as I kept a watchful eye on him, what could he possibly be thinking as he traveled over the cut string from a project done weeks ago and a bolt of ribbon that never found its way back to its place in the cupboard.
It occurred to me, it must be a true adventure for him as he checked practically every square inch of space on that tabletop. He’d stop every once in a while, perhaps to catch his breath from his previous quick movement. Perhaps he was planning to rendezvous later for some late-night crafting with his friends! Maybe he was out looking for a late-night snack, and my “creative mess” was sure to bring some tasty morsel. He was so busy, I certainly didn’t want to disturb him, and he really wasn’t taking up much space. I was sure I could share my workspace with him.
He paused for a moment and gave me my chance. I said, oh so quietly, almost in a whisper . . . “What shall I call you if we should meet again?” He paused, again catching his breath one more time, and said, “just call me Spike . . . all my friends do.”
So, I now have a spider. I wouldn’t exactly call him a pet. But I do have Spike who reminds me when it’s time to create from my heart with bliss. I sometimes forget to do that! I still don’t care much for spiders, but I will tolerate them on my terms . . . and if they are too big, I ask for help to escort them carefully outside while I carry on with my bliss inside!
P.S. Dear Sisters: I did it! I found a way to move past my fear of spiders! Let’s celebrate!
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