On the Illusive Muse: Waiter or Writer Be?

When the Muse leaves town, or hides its light beneath the bushel, is there any point to chasing it?  The Muse is very good at hiding.  It does not like to be hounded.  It cares not to be controlled.  It refuses to be disciplined.  So chasing it, even looking for it, does no good.

Sometimes the best thing to do when the Muse is absent is to wait.  Silently.  Quietly.  Hands folded.  Still beneath the spreading bodhi tree, in a hammock or comfortable chair.  Other times it is best to take to the blank page on your screen or paper and just begin to write.  Whatever comes, it is better than to chase the Muse.  The Muse, its seems, is curious.  It will come only when you are paying it no heed.  And when it appears, listen.  And create.  

Its all you can do.  Chasing you could trip and fall or get hit by a bus.  Invite the Muse by engaging in its favorite activity: creation.  It will come.  Inspiration will appear only when you open yourself to it and let it in.  

​Start now...just as I have here.  It seems to work...most of the time!

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