Expression

As human beings we have this constant need to express who we are. Its almost as if we need to prove to the world what we're about, constantly letting others know what we love or hate to an equal degree through mediums such as music, art, dance, drama etc.. So I ask where does this urge for expressing ourselves come from? What motivates an artist to paint, or a dancer to dance? What emotion are we trying to get across to the rest of the world?  And does it all come from the same place?
I ponder these questions as I ask myself what prompted me to write this blog in the first place. I can only speak for myself but the desire to get across to the world what I felt was so monumental, and so I did it the only way I know how;by writing. Perhaps expression in all its forms comes from a place of needing to create something bigger than ourselves, that lasts. We need to be the creator of something that exists on this world long after we don't. Whether that's making a piece of artwork that stands the test of time, or a legendary song we all, in our own ways, wish to leave our mark on this world.
We need to believe that the world was a better place because we were in it. It's almost fundamental to our existence, because otherwise what is the point of living?

Indeed, the need to put a stamp on something, and say this is me, this is who I am is so strong even in terms of aesthetic appearance with our make up or clothes. We constantly need to make a statement to the outside world. This may derive out of a internal fear of being overridden or forgotten. Our chosen mediums of expression serve as a reminder to the world that we are "here." That we exist wholly as opinionated and loved individuals. That not only are we a part of this world, but we have something worthwhile to say and you're going to fucking sit up and listen.

So I ask, what is the source of all this expression? What single emotion pushes an individual to want to create, mold and shape? Our external creations can become such an integral part of us that they define our identities. A good musician is obsessed with their craft, putting endless hours fine tuning the melody, the sound and the lyrics, to the point where what they do becomes who they are.
To go back to my initial question, I believe any form of expression has to be born out of a place of internal suffering. But that is not a bad thing, in fact I believe that channeling that negative energy into creating something worthwhile and long lasting is the only way we can truly fulfill our potentials. In order to create something which is the truest reflection of yourself you need to almost be at breaking point, to really feel. You can only do this when you come face to face with all your hindrances, fears and insecurities so that you can reach within, at your most vulnerable state and make something great. Suffering creates the necessary emotional energy with which we can express ourselves in the most honest and raw manner. 

"A great artist... must be shaken by the naked truths that will not be comforted. This divine discontent, this disequilibrium, this state of inner tension is the source of artistic energy."- Goethe

Do not be afraid of your own limatations, for they are a stepping stone to a greater understanding about yourself. Express any pain you feel with the thousands of different mediums available to you. Above all chose to do great things with the limited time you have on this earth. Make yourself unforgettable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i41qWJ6QjPI

BE.