It’s amazing what we can do when we tune in to our natural creativity… yet somehow I grew up wondering why I didn’t seem to have a creative bone in my body. Even my childhood stick figures seemed to lack symmetry and I still cannot play a musical instrument. When it comes to originating something of lasting artistic value, I’ve left that to the professionals. Still, I’ve always appreciated listening to music, and lately I’ve been splashing acquired bits of inspired art around my home along with other creative touches. Fortunately, I’ve always been able to find some creative twist in my work. For example, after graduating high school, I was tasked with creating an electrical control panel for a new system at Carpenter Technology’s specialty steel mill in Reading. The cover of the control box showed the complete production flow, with lights and switches to help operators visualize and control the entire process. When finished, it looked like it was straight out of a Star Trek episode. I learned much about myself and my potential during that client project and I still smile at my sense of satisfaction when my supervisor said the customer was highly pleased with his new “work of art”. That was 30 years ago, and I wonder if my creation is still benefiting the workforce along the Schuylkill River? These days, I’m daily challenged to use every bit of my creative abilities in order to bring this monthly magazine to life. Judith Fertig’s feature article “Handmade Happiness,” on page 28, is an encouraging reminder that it’s never too late to make our childhood passions come alive or to create something brand new which causes us to thrive. Participants explore how applying creative skill in one medium or another is a capacity that virtually anyone can develop with practice. I keeping with our Creativity theme, we also explore ways to create the life you want with Dr. Mary Alice Long, on page 32. She guides her clients toward embracing their playful, creative natures in a passionate, purposeful life. September also brings National Yoga Month. Natural Awakenings’ 87 communities are co-sponsoring the event at YogaMonth.org, an organization devoted to raising the awareness of the many healthful benefits of yoga practice. Our community spotlight on page 44 further explores the possibilities with local yoga pioneer Jessie Thompson and her own creative miracle, The Yoga Loft of Bethlehem. You’ll find a directory of free or donation based local yoga classes this month on page 49. Our calendar is packed with area events with creative spins on fun and health. The Mid-Atlantic Energy Festival on July 16-18, in Kempton, engages us in a three-day celebration of homegrown green living solutions. The same weekend invites us to the 19th annual Fall Spiritual and Holistic expo, in Allentown. Those are only a few of the inspiring options for you to explore. Here’s to ever more creative living, Reid Boyer, Publisher