Brain Flow

So along with my last post on Words, I have another idea rolling around that I have always liked sharing, and thought I'd include on this page.  Sometimes, words are hard to get out.  Things in our mind can be there but not have materialized into reality yet.  I want to talk about the concept of brainstorming, it's value, and how the lord can inspire us through our own thoughts.

There is great value in brainstorming.  I love doing it.  We as missionaries will brainstorm different teaching ideas, or things to say when we first meet people, or specific answers to questions we have posed often.  In all cases, the brainstorm starts out a bit slow.  We think of the same old things we always say.  Then the ideas start getting a bit out there, crazy.  There is so much value here though.  As we start to get the words flowing, the bad ones come out, but it will get your mind cranking and eventually the truly good ideas come out.  You have to start throwing out the crazy ones first, with the total understanding that you won't be using that idea.  It's just a brainstorm.  This is hard for people sometimes.  We as humans get so possessive about our ideas.  We don't want to admit it's a bad idea, we want to cling to ideas we have and pound them into the ground til they work.  As we let the ideas flow, letting them be bad, then we don't care any more.  Then the ideas can be flushed out, the old usual ones, then then crazy ones, then the good ones.  It helps to write things down. 

So why am I talking about this?  I think we all have the potential to affect those around us.  We can plan events, plan gifts for people, come up with all kinds of things that lift others.  Sometimes we get stuck in a rut.  Sometimes we need fresh new ideas.  Sometimes we're trying to overcome something, or trying to make a change in life, but can't seem to think of a way to do it.  If we take the time to get out a pen and paper, let the ideas flow, especially with other people, we can come up with ideas that can be turned into real action.  If you're trying to think of a good B-day present for mom.  Start with flowers... card... balloons... dayspa... circus animals... airplane flying by... parachuters... firework show... tickets to a circus... day at a horse ranch... now the flowing is happening, and the good ideas started.

I know God can inspire our ideas.  We have to do the work.  The old adage, "God can help the guy who's out Pushing his car and praying, much more than the guy just sitting In his car praying."  Sometimes that work can be in the form of pen, paper, and good brain flow.  God can inspire.  Brainstorming takes some effort, but if used well, God can inspire our actions.  Try it next time your planning activity, or trying to help someone out, or trying to help yourself out.  I know we have great potential if we give our self the chance to be inspired.  I know that we can let things go, and move on to better things.  Give it a try.  Happy Brain Flowing!!