13 // Creativity as a Practice for Hope and Healing // Kristin Vanderlip

"I can actively create hope in myself through this practice...where there was nothing before, I can create something." What if creativity is about more than the art we make, food we cook, or music we produce? What if creativity could be a tool—a weapon, even—that allows us to fight for hope in even the darkest places of our lives?Listen in to this conversation with my friend, artist, writer, and coach, Kristin Vanderlip, as she shares about the power wielding imagination as an act of resistance to despair. Because if you have the ability to create something new, you have the power to fight for hope in your own life, and in the lives of others.Join us for this conversation as we talk about:The power of putting our experiences—especially hard ones—into wordsCreativity as a spiritual practice that empowers us to defeat despair as we activate our imaginationsAdvice for those who don’t think of themselves as creative peopleIdeas to disconnect the end product from the process and practice of creativityLetting go of the idea that we need certain skills and paying attention to what brings life, energy, and delightWhy nourishing the creative parts of ourselves is as essential as nourishing our bodiesPractical ideas for integrating more creative space into your daysPermission to invest in your creativity as part of your sacred calling in the worldKristin Vanderlip is a writer, artist, and certified writing coach who is passionate about spreading the love of writing and creativity as paths to healing and hope. After experiencing deep personal grief, Kristin returned to writing and art as ways to process pain, connect with God, and find resilience. Kristin believes creativity is a sacred invitation—to meet ourselves, to meet God, and to find healing and hope.Kristin is the founder of the Pen & Mend Collective, a writing community where women receive monthly journal prompts, attend virtual Writing Rooms, and engage in meaningful reflection and conversation—all designed to help them write their way through sorrow and into healing. She is the author of the faith-based journals Rest: A Journal for Lament and Rise: A Journal for Perseverance.Connect with Kristin on her website to find info on her journals, art, workshops, and more at www.kristinvanderlip.com or follow Kristin on Substack or on Instagram. Resources mentioned in this episode:Rachel Marie Kahn - Let There Be ArtAndrew Peterson - Adorning the DarkMadeline L’Engle - Walking on WaterAmy McNee - We Need Your ArtJulia Cameron - The Artist’s WayMaggie Smith - You Could Make This Place BeautifulAnnie F. Downs - “That Sounds Fun” podcast * * *Stay connected:Connect with Jillian on Instagram or Facebook or sign up for the monthly Permission Slips email newsletter!Want to book Jillian to speak or work with her for coaching? Learn more on her website.Subscribe to Permission Slips so you never miss an episode, and please share or review this podcast to help others find it!