The Power of Inspiration: Sometimes it is the difference between giving out and moving forward

Comfort and Peace

 

We all talk about inspiration, generally in terms of what inspired us to take a specific action.  “What inspired you to…?”  is a frequent question that show hosts ask guests who have accomplished something specific such as a creative writing project or painting,  or designing something of beauty. 

What is inspiration?  According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, the top three definitions are: a divine influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation; the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions; and the act of influencing or suggesting opinions. 

What inspires each of us to achieve is a varied as our personalities.  For me, words, visualizations, and music can move me to joy or tears.   These external stimuli trigger something within that reminds me of my passion, my commitments to myself, the person I can become.   Reading inspiring words begins the process, but when I speak them, they become alive in my spirit and stay with me.  The more I repeat them, the more they become part of me – my mantra.   When I feel as though I can’t go on, my mantra refuels my soul and enables me to move forward. 

When music that underscores my words’ is added, I am transported to my better self.  Suggestion to self: keep my mantra and music nearby.  Recite often. 

Insights into the importance of words and stories that inspire can be seen by the books in the ”inspirational” category at Amazon.com.  According to the Amazon search engine, as of March 28, 2010 there are 96,487 books listed in this category. At aalbc.com, which states that it is the #1 site for African-American literature, three of their 2009 top ten non-fiction books provide inspiration and motivation. 

According to Mellissa Dawn Johnson, who has a morning motivational minute on CNN Saturday Morning, “…your words have weight. The power of words is that they’re able to create opportunities and positive advancements in your life.” 

Kudos, Mellissa, for such insights.  My experience mirrors your comments. 

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