On Critics

Dear Traveller,

As creative warriors, we should proudly claim the right to create our destinies. This, of course, is the offending sword to the throat of the status quo. It mindlessly chants that we should be sheep, that our destinies are found in the slaughterhouse of servile oblivion. The bloodless bastards who serve them are referred to as “Critics”. Critics are like white blood cells gone cancerous; madly seeking out and attacking the healthiest cells.

How does one defend against them? How do we tell the difference between them and those with honest critiques?

Firstly, we must understand that Critics are typically the decayed remnants of those who gave up their heroic dreams long ago in exchange for the delusion of stability and comfort. They are to be pitied, fellow traveller, not feared.

Secondly, we must claim our right to be creative warriors; we must acknowledge that we have the right to authentically create ourselves. If you intend on being an authentic person, then conformity is not for you. The critic will cajole, lambast and berate you. Why? Because fear and envy drive them forth; these hungry ghosts have sold their souls and they know it.

Typically, the critic will say things like “Be practical” (because trading your time to help fulfill the dreams of someone else is practical. And yet, I’m the crazy one), “You’ll never make it”, or my personal favourite “Who do you think you are?” (These are things that were said to me, by my own family I might add, just this week. *sigh*)

It can hurt when such palpable nonsense comes from those closest to you. This is a good thing, I assure you; for it signifies that you’re on to something. I heartily suggest cladding yourself in the mental armour of a warrior-mind state and then asking yourself ,”What is the validity, if any, of their criticisms?” Let’s say, for instance, that the critic is your brother. If he has spectacularly failed at life and yet insists on telling you how to live yours, how can you take him seriously? I suggest politely listening to what they have to say, and then go back to your self-creation. Apply this thought-process to your parents, friends, clergy, harem, homeless guy on the bus, etc.There may be inadvertent wisdom in what they say, but often not for the reasons they think. ;D

If you truly wish to authentically create yourself and live a life of passion, integrity, and courage; then you cannot pay critics, no matter who they are, any heed. Those that love and understand you will not criticize but suggest; they will examine your efforts with a compassionate eye, and they will support you through your victories and failures. If your “friends” are really double agents for your ninjas, find better friends. Yes, it really is that easy, believe me.

Finally, and most importantly; courageously acknowledge your conviction to follow your dreams, whatever they are. Whether you are building a death ray in your basement (I have dreams too you know!) or composing a song about carrots; as long as it is an authentic expression of you, go for it. You will struggle, you may even suffer; but a creative warrior must have the courage to persist. Clad your creative convictions in authentic warriorship and you will not only surprise yourself, but you will surpass the nauseating mediocrity that assaults and insults all of us who strive for authentic personal excellence. Fellow traveller, it is up to you to embrace your greatness and surpass all artificial limits within and without. Thank you and have a marvelous day.

In communion with you,

Shinken

Creativity is a Gift

Dear Traveller,
Your creative abilities set you apart from others, it allows you to experience reality in a completely different way from most other people. What’s even more incredible is that you can communicate that experience through whichever medium you want! Your work is pregnant with the possibility of inspiring others, of touching another soul-to-soul. Think back to how you felt when first inspired by something that shook the ground of your Being; now imagine being the cause of that for others. Feels pretty good, no?

You may struggle, suffer and rage at the madness of it all; but you still bare your work to the world and thus, others become one with you for that special moment. We create because we must, because our souls cry out to the endless night that we will be heard, even if only for a lone moment. Nonetheless, we know our duty, no? We know that this is something that we must do and that our Sisyphus-task is good because it is true.

I say delight in your gift, celebrate it! However, bear in mind that because it is a gift, you bear the implicit duty of being worthy of said gift. Proudly earn the right to it by mindfully striving to live an authentic life, a warrior’s life devoid of conformity and bursting with truth.Thank you again and may your day be filled with meaning and passion.

Yours upon the Way,

Shinken

Mistakes Were Made (By Me)

Dear Traveller,

Sometimes the Way is not a walk but a stumble replete with stubbed toes (would someone explain to me WHY it hurts so bloody much?). Anyway, I still struggle with being mindful and not letting irrational thinking cloud my reason. While I have made great inroads in this area, mistakes are still made. But the funny thing is, I learn from my mistakes without much self-flagellation. (I once was the king of self-criticism, now I am merely a duke lol)

The Way of Artist and Warrior alike value mistakes because there is always a lesson within them. The last thing that you want to do is compound the mistake with criticism. Simply observe that the action has happened, stoically accept the consequences, and move on.  The lesson is in the mistake, you don’t learn anything of value by making your own self a punching bag, trust me.

There is a difference between sober self-reflection and destructive self-criticism; the true mind recognizes this and adjusts itself accordingly. As a self-created warrior, you will learn to ignore the latter and embrace the former. Take a deep breath and tell yourself “Yes, I have made a mistake but that is no reason attack myself” Why not try this now and let me know how it has worked for you?

Your upon the Way,

Shinken