“The more you use, the more you have.” Maya Angelou
A good thing often has many adoptive mothers and fathers and that is often a good thing in itself. A good idea that stays with us may never have the opportunity to fly high. A good piece of work may forever remain a hidden gem. Having many mothers and fathers is often but not always a good thing. The sadness and hurt I used to feel when my ideas and work were "borrowed" or sometimes outrightly misappropriated by others were deep and disheartening... until, many heartbreaks later, I finally arrived at a vital realization: I can't always protect these children of mine, that is true. My creativity and abilities, however, are my God-given gifts. The rewards I reap as the author of an idea or a work are the excitement when that first thought shyly drifts in like the flutter of a butterfly, then confidently matures and takes shape and meaning, the inspiration and urge that overwhelm me as I translate the thought and the vision into a plan, the care and passion I painstakingly put into executing and creating, and the great pride and joy as my baby finally comes to life. Those amazing feelings, that immense fulfillment, no one can ever steal from me, or even borrow, no matter how hard they try. A good thing indeed often has many adoptive mothers and fathers, but if we dive deeply into its soul, it will lead us to its true home.
To my fellow "true parents," don't be afraid to share the sons and daughters of your creativity and hardwork with the world, no matter their fate and who's lurking hungrily out there. It is often said that "imitation is the best form of flattery" and "the best ideas are common property."* So next time you see your beloved idea or work take on a life of its own, tap yourself on the back and remind yourself with a big smile, "this is my baby," then go back to creating... cause you're the best at it.
*quote attributed to Seneca
