After being on the road for a month, it’s been challenging for me to get back into a “regular” rhythm (whatever that is). So I’ve gotten behind on my 2012 retrospectives; but the happenings of this past weekend coincide with giving tribute to one of my teachers of yesteryear as well.
I was on retreat in the wilderness, at the end of the Gunflint Trail in the northern part of Minnesota where the waters that boundary the U.S. and Canada are currently frozen so well that we drove to the island where Jason dropped me off to stay with a handful of other creative types to meet our muse and give space to listen inwardly to our own artist souls. We were out of cell range and beyond wi-fi as well.
My soul friend
Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux, who is also a brilliant writer, professional storyteller and creative midwife, curated the experience with grace and humor. She guided us through a series of writing exercises and facilitated conversation that was heart-opening and freeing. I also brought away with me a couple tools that I trust will be great for the brainstorming part of my song-writing process.
One of my favorite activities was writing down the things our inner Critic says to us when we’re trying to create or live life well. I’m sure none of you relate to this, but my inner Critic says things to me like: “You’re selfish and greedy.”
I wrote that down in one talk bubble and then wrote in another bubble my response. “Well, yes, sometimes I am, but my true intent is to be of benefit and blessing to others as I am at my best.”
During a concert, when I’m performing, my Critic might say something to me like: “Look at that person’s face. They don’t seem too into the music, do they? You probably offended them with how you introduced that song.”
And my response: “Probably not, but even if they took offense, I wish them and theirs all the best. I can still be me and sing my song.”
This was such a funny exercise and reassuring to hear from other artists some similar dark thoughts. There are a few other humorous ones and perhaps another time I lay bare to you my hidden fears and psychological conundrums, but for now, that couch isn’t really where I want to recline, at least with all of you in the room. ;-)
Last year, Rose and I worked together on songwriting from a narrative perspective. We had three coaching sessions via skype during which she shared with me her insights as author and storyteller/performer. She gave me feedback, including generous compliments, on some lyrics I was working on and she allowed me to set my own goals in this regard.
I have been struggling for a while to really get back into the
lifestyle of songwriting. I’ve needed to set some parameters in my life to reignite my songwriter sensibilities and refocus my songwriter lens on the world, life and experiences. Sessions with her were such a support to that effort.
It was activating simply to have time scheduled with Rose since I wanted to have something new to share with her and take the opportunity to glean from the advantage of her perspective. Her helpful feedback was empowering, stimulated new ideas and inspired me to continue to call out, first, my all and then, my best through my work.
I think a coach is especially remarkable when she can help you realize the insights and wisdom you have within yourself, when she can guide you to uncover your own inner wisdom and that’s the sort of teacher Rose is. I’m grateful for the chance to work with this woman who’s heart is big and who’s work I admire. And you might have noticed that you can be expecting more
new songwriting from yours truly as we journey on in 2013. Smiles.
With a Grateful Heart,
