One of the joys of making something is that you never know the extent to which it can inspire someone.
I was just thinking about all the things I have on my bookshelf. The authors will never know that their books touched me in a particular way. Thus is the nature of creativity: when you put something out there, people can find meaning in what you make on their terms.
Many web pages inspire me. Some pages make me want to open developer tools and figure out how the page is designed. Other pages give me an idea for a new way I can present my creativity on my website.
Many essays make me feel. Through words, an author can make the reader smile, wonder, or reflect. The word is such a versatile medium – as, on reflection, are all creative arts. I heard recently that art is a reflection of us and that, through art, we figure out who we want to be. I feel like I want to explore that topic more, but I need more time.
When I am chatting with web weavers – people who make websites – and writers and creatives on the web, I like to share something I appreciate about their work. This is meaningful to me because I appreciate the time people have spent making something and I know, first hand, how much it can matter to someone that their work inspired you.
Yesterday, I was chatting with a friend who, with excitement, asked if they could see a demo of the thing I had made this week. I was so proud of what I had made. This invitation warmed my heart.
Share a compliment with a creator whose work you appreciate. Tell your friends who make things how much you enjoyed something they made. You could make someone’s day.
On the same note, if you have a friend who is interested in making something but is unsure where to start, or who does not feel confident in getting started, or who needs a bit of help along the way, provide support and encouragement. Making things is hard; kind words from friends help immesurably.
