In The Artist’s Way, Cameron iterates a concept called “spiritual electricity” and the principles therein. She also provides a set of affirmations to be read. In each, there are certain words I found jarring, words that don’t resonate with me: God, the creator, divine. Also certain phrases, such as “My dreams come from God and God has the power to accomplish them,” and “The refusal to be creative is self-will and is counter to our true nature.” The first sentence it feels like an abrogation of responsibility. In the second sentence, the concept of self-will infers there is another will (God’s), and since I don’t actually have a relationship with a deity, it feels hollow. I do agree with the second part of that sentence.

So I spent a good deal of time last night journaling and meditating on what terms would be best for me, which I would respond to positively. Words are just words, you say? Well yes. We assign meaning. However, some words just do not lose their original meaning, because the assigned meaning was ingrained through years of repetition from culture. I decided on some new words, because the definitions of them (my interpretation at least) fit more comfortably. Now, if you haven’t read these principles and affirmations, you lack context. I’m going to put them in the extended part of this post — for myself, for future reference, and in case you are curious about the changes I made. The original stated principles can be found at Kat’s blog. Original creative affirmations are here. Mine with alterations are below.

Basic Principles

1. Creativity is the natural order of life. Life is energy: pure creative energy.
2. There is an underlying, in-dwelling creative force infusing all of life — including ourselves.
3. When we open ourselves to our creativity, we open ourselves to the muse’s creativity within us and our lives.
4. We are, ourselves, creations. And we, in turn, are meant to continue creativity by being creative ourselves.
5. Creativity is Tao’s gift to us. Using our Creativity is our gift back to Tao.
6. The refusal to be creative is counter to our true nature.
7. When we open ourselves to exploring our creativity, we open ourselves to Tao: traveling along openly.
8. As we open our creative channel to the muse, many gentle but powerful changes are to be expected.
9. It is safe to open ourselves up to greater and greater creativity.
10. Our creative dreams and yearnings come from a mysterious source. As we move toward our dreams, we move toward the mystery.

Affirmations

1. I am a channel for Tao’s creativity, and my work comes to good.
2. My dreams come from Tao and can be accomplished through Tao.
3. As I create and listen, I will be led.
4. Creativity is the muse’s intention for me.
5. My creativity heals myself and others.
6. I am allowed to nurture my artist.
7. Through the use of a few simple tools, my creativity will flourish.
8. Through the use of my creativity, I serve Tao.
9. My creativity always leads me to truth and love.
10. My creativity leads me to forgiveness and self-forgiveness.
11. There is a mysterious plan of goodness for me.
12. There is a mysterious plan of goodness for my work.
13. As I listen to the muse within, I am led.
14. As I listen to my creativity I am led to my muse.
15. I am willing to create.
16. I am willing to learn to let myself create.
17. I am willing to let Tao create through me.
18. I am willing to be of service through my creativity.
19. I am willing to experience my creative energy.
20. I am willing to use my creative talents.