What is genius? From Emerson's Essay Spiritual Laws--
"A man's genius, the quality that differences him from every other, the susceptibility to one class of influences, the selection of what is fit for him, the rejection of what is unfit, determines for him the character of the universe. A man is a method, a progressive arrangement; a selecting principle, gathering his like to him, wherever he goes." and in Self Reliance --
"It may be safely trusted as proportionate and of good issues, so it be faithfully imparted, but God will not have his work made manifest by cowards. A man is relieved and gay when he has put his heart into his work and done his best; but what he has said or done otherwise, shall give him no peace. It is a deliverance which does not deliver. In the attempt his genius deserts him; no muse befriends; no invention, no hope."
Our genius is the expression we do in living or in our our work where we put our heart into the activity and have done our best. It is as a divine pressure or voltage operating through us that wants to deliver an electron flow or current of natural creativity. Genius is the pulse, the squirt of beauty, the magic that is a skill, an approach when you feel a supreme dose of 'Yes!'. In reference to Emerson, genius was the force attempting to come through you- it is unique to you. It is not a statement of an intelligence level or IQ. In the 1840's you would not say, "He is a genius!". Instead you might say, "He expresses his genius in everything he does".
An Exercise To Understand and Reveal Your Genius
Follow these steps in an exercise to explore and recognize your genius. Allow 15-20 minutes, more is fine.
- First, come to a meditative state with music, walking, breath or whatever works for you. Have a pen and pad available for any notes.
- When you feel relaxed ask the question "What is my genius?. Sit in the quiet and listen to what comes as the answer
- Write down the words or images. Ask the question again, "What is my genius?"
- Continue with this question, "What is my emerging genius?" During our lives we are always developing our skills and recognizing our joys and passion of expression. This meditation recognizes today and allow for greater genius tomorrow.
- From the past, look for things you have expressed or created and see how your genius came through.
- Going forward, whenever you think about a new plan, a new manifestation or creation look to see if it speaks to your genius.
