I used to think inspiration arrived fully formed, like a parcel from the universe, dropped at the door.

What actually shows up are fragments. A phrase that lingers. An image that won’t leave. A sense that something important is nearby, but not yet willing to reveal itself.

I’ve put a lot of projects down over the years. Unfinished things can’t fail. But sometimes, when I stepped away, the work kept moving without me, rearranging itself while I wasn’t watching.

I understand now that learning what can wait, and listening for what can’t is a part of the process. Some things need time, not as delay, but as an ingredient.

When the words or the tasks won’t leave me alone, when my mind needs fresh air………