In my dream a few nights ago, I see my mother in heaven.   She has long, flowing black hair.  Her hair was never this long when she was alive. 

“Hi Mom!” I say.  She greets me too, but she is busy pushing my aunt in a wheelchair so she keeps walking.

“Wait!” I say.  “I don’t seem to communicate very well with you any more here in heaven.  It’s not like it used to be.  What am I doing wrong?”

She pauses and looks me in my eyes.  “Stop trying so hard.”

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This is good advice.  Not only for me connecting with her in my dream, but for anyone with their writing.  When we try too hard to create art, the art is forced and is anything but creative and natural. 

We must relax and let it flow!   How do we do this?  Daydream!  While you are letting ideas, words, and images float by you, write them down casually.  Know you are brainstorming. 

Sit in an easy chair, or lie in the sun.  Where are YOU most relaxed?

When the words feel stilted or you are in a funk, remember my mother’s words.  Go to the place in your head where you are able to relax the best.  Go to the physical place you are able to be restful. 

And create.