During our first week to #stayathome our son asked if he could FaceTime with a girl from his class. My husband and I might have normally said "no." We're not much into kids on screens or the premature boyfriend/girlfriend drama. But in these weird times, we said yes. I was very clear that he had to stay in the kitchen (where of course I would be listening the whole time).
As soon as he got on the phone they started talking about the book they are collaborating to write. I was a little embarrassed that he didn't even ask her how she was doing! Immediately, they were talking about characters' names, timelines, and narrative structure!
After a 5-minute check in, they each put their heads down-while still on FaceTime-and WROTE! For 10 minutes, they didn't talk or even look up. They simply did the work.
When they finally spoke, it was to share what they'd written. Then they put their heads down and did it again. It went on like this for a full hour! I was so intrigued and inspired, I couldn't bring myself to stop them. When the call ended, he continued writing so that he could mail his draft and anticipate receiving hers. It’s as though they were both craving the creativity and collaboration that social isolations threatens to steal. They are fighting back the darkness in their own way.
His commitment spurred me on to keep my creative dreams alive. I partnered with a friend for daily check-ins and writing challenges. It’s given new life and meaning to an otherwise fallow time.
How are you keeping the embers of creativity alive?