A Little Drama, A Lot of Creativity
The word drama can have a variety of meanings. Often, we use it to describe someone who is considered a little too expressive, emotional, or “over the top.”
I have very little tolerance for the kind of mean-spirited drama that sometimes happens among school-aged children. Statements such as “I’m not going to sit by her” or “You’re not my friend” can be hurtful and isolating. Sadly, this kind of behavior doesn't always end with childhood. We see it among adults, too.
But there is another side to drama that I have come to appreciate.
As the daughter of a dad who sang, moved, and played the piano in ways that might have seemed “over the top” to some, I developed an appreciation for artistic expression and creativity. Creative people often have a deep desire to express themselves. That expression might show up in clothing choices, home decor, makeup, body jewelry, tattoos, or career paths that others may not understand.
Sometimes, what we call “drama” is simply a person's desire to create, express, and share something unique.
That creative desire can take many forms: cooking, baking, decorating for Christmas, making music, creating art, acting, and so much more. Rather than deciding that someone is just “too much,” we can choose to get to know them and seek to understand what makes them who they are.
We can learn to appreciate their unique, God-given gifts, even when their choices are different from our own. Does that mean I intend to embrace every choice someone else makes for myself? No. But I can still choose to value and respect that person, appreciate their gifts, and remain open to the possibility of a new friendship.
While I may not have inherited my dad's stage presence, I did inherit his love of music and the need to create. For me, that creativity finds its expression in playing the piano and teaching others. I prefer playing for others over performing piano solos, but I also enjoy finding unexpected ways to bring music and creativity into everyday life.
One of those ways is reading stories to my granddaughter!In the video accompanying this blog, I'm reading a Dr. Seuss ABC book to her. I enjoy adding a little extra flair, expression, and excitement to the words on the page. She enjoys the fun, and we get to share a special moment together while learning the alphabet.
Perhaps that's my own version of a little “drama!”
I believe we all have God-given gifts and talents. When we embrace what we've been given and take the time to develop those gifts, we have something meaningful to share with the world.
Creativity enriches our lives in countless ways. We enjoy the artwork hanging on our walls, the music we hear in concerts and recordings, the amazing treats from a local bakery, and the technological advances that make our lives more efficient. These are just a few examples of how someone's creativity can become a gift to others.
We don't all express ourselves in the same ways, and we don't have to agree with every choice someone makes. But perhaps we can be a little slower to judge and a little quicker to appreciate the creativity, individuality, and God-given gifts in others.
Instead of stereotyping, let's make room for creativity, celebrate the gifts we've been given, and recognize that sometimes a little “drama” brings a whole lot of joy.
