I came across this article in the Huffington Post today, and didn’t get past the first idea before an idea struck me! There are ten exercises suggested in the article. I’m going to undertake them over the next few posts and see how they go. I’ve been working on improving my creativity and this is just the kind of challenge I need.
So here goes with The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt :
Grab the 7th book from your bookshelf. Open it up to page 7. Pinpoint the 7th sentence on the page. Begin a poem that begins with that sentence and limit it in length to 7 lines.
Was it a coincidence that the seventh book happened to be The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People? I can’t say. The book doesn’t even have page 7! So I counted the pages and then arrived at the seventh line on the seventh page. It reads, “But these are secondary, not primary traits.” In this section Covey is discussing the difference between the ‘character ethic’ and the ‘personality ethic’. Here’s my 7 line poem.
(But) These are secondary, not primary traits
Do they truly reflect us, or do we hesitate
To reveal what’s inside us
Ours fears and hurts
Our true hopes and dreams.
What if we’re not accepted by all who see
What’s deep inside us behind our personality?
Somehow this topic seemed to fit right in with what’s going on in my life – my search to be authentic and real. Sometimes, the fear that we will not be accepted for being who we are, makes us create a personality that might not reflect what’s within. I’ve been gradually shedding that personality that I adopted and I can tell you that not everyone can accept the real Me.
Does it hurt? Hell, yes.
Is it scary? But, of course.
Is it worth it? Like nothing else!
Today I’m inviting you to join in me in this prompt and also encouraging you on your journey towards being YOU.
PS: If you decide to play, leave your link here.
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I loved the poem Corinne ! Very well put !
Ruchira recently posted..New Beginnings
Thanks, Ruchira. I’m waiting for yours. đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Corinne, the idea is fabulous but I can’t write a poem for nuts. Can I write a post based on that seventh line?
You are a fantastic wordsmith, by Jove. Your poems read so well.
The idea is brilliant, Corinne. Thanks for the tag. BTW, I’m waiting for the other one (BP) as well.
Joy always,
Susan
Susan Deborah recently posted..The Migrant Syndrome
I can’t write poems for nuts either. Can I do a flash fiction… limited to 7 sentences… or something like that?
Another writing prompt that I got yesterday was to step out of the house and take a pic. Step back inside and take another pic. Then write a post relating the two. Sounded fun, but I haven’t done anything about it. đ
Love,
Dagny
I’m tapping my fingers and waiting for your post, Dagny. Perhaps you can combine the two prompts? đ Now, I’m pushing it!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
Here you are Corinne… http://serenelyrapt.wordpress.com/2013/01/26/all-sevens/ đ Pushing it, were you? đ
Love,
Dagny
Dagny recently posted..All Sevens
And didn’t you rock it, lady? đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Susan – thanks for the compliments, sweetie – it’s not nuts I’m offering ;). I’m waiting for your poem – you’re going to do a fab job – I know it!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
Wowzie!!! That is pretty gutsy, Corinne! Well, I cant write a post right now..but did go into my library n picked out the seventh book from one section (it is Gendering Talk) and 7th line on 7th page says” “yet i also question the gendered stereotyping of monologue and dialogue and try to uncouple…” The author speaks of monologue tending to be masculine and dialog as considered to be preffered by women but she wants to note how both genders practice it. Ok..let me see if I can rhyme it…
She says she speaks in us,
And you say you speak.
But remember the moments,
when we both spoke
us and me
us and me
till dawn spliced us again?
bhavana recently posted..HBM2013- Enabling Change Through Social Media
Brilliant, Bhavana. I so admire the ease and flow of your words in this poem and on your blog.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
This sounds interesting Corinne. Will try and link in tomorrow. I love Stephen Covey’s book and your poem is great. It’s so true that we hide our true selves behind a façade so that we can be accepted but eventually it just gets very tiring to be someone you are not. Great post.
Suzy recently posted..UBC Day 24 – Five Question Friday
Thanks, Suzy. You’re so right. The weight of holding up a mask is too much.
Your poem was fantastic!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
Fantastic poem, Corinne, and a fabulous idea. Don’t know that I’ll have time to participate, but I hope many will.
Blessings, my friend!
Martha Orlando recently posted..Inviting Allie In
Thanks, Martha. The idea is not my own, but I’m glad a lot of people like it! đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
This sounds like a fun prompt!! I loved your poem too. Being authentic–it doesn’t get any better.
Cheers, Jenn
Jenn recently posted..Popularity
Thanks so much, Jenn.
and shall it be said that my eye was in truth my dawn
my heart no more forlorn
Smile,my face adorned
I sprinted & sang along. . .
for My Life no more on loan
& at last I had come home
At last I had come home . . .
Deepti recently posted..Diamond I was..
I loved this Deeps. I do wish you’d return to blogging – I miss you! đ
Hi Corinne
LOved the poem and the idea as well.
Thanks for sharing this.
Sapna
sapna recently posted..Naive Blogger Meets a Minister to help Blogging Community – An Infographic
Thanks a lot, Sapna. Glad you enjoyed it.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Oh that’s so cool! I love that book so much!! =)
Thank you! I do too.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Great prompt! Not that I can aspire to composing a poem. I will participate from next week (hopefully)!
Roshni recently posted..Messiest Mom of the Week!!
Also, wanted to to say that I love your blog background! Very soothing!! đ
Roshni recently posted..Messiest Mom of the Week!!
I’m waiting for this poem now, Roshini, after I read yours today!
Thanks – got the background off the net. Will share it with you if you have use for it – let me know. đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Hi Corinne, I would love to have it (or if you can point me to the website where you got it from)!!
Roshni recently posted..I need your help!
Don’t remember the website, Roshni. I sent it to you just now via FB. Please let me know if you get it and it works.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
That is such a cool idea, Corinne. And you did a brilliant job of the poem.
Rachna recently posted..Original vs. Fake!
Thanks a lot, Rachna. The idea is cool and I’m looking forward to the other prompts suggested in the article! đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Strange but I too gravitated towards a book and a line that strangely reflected the situation I am currently facing……….
BellyBytes recently posted..This elephant can dance
I guess the Universe knows what it is up to? đ Loved your poem.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Hi Corinne,
Taking action in the first place is wonderful enough đ How many have read it and ignore taking the action? You did đ
Nice poem and I’ve added some background music myself đ Isn’t it true that everyone doesn’t accept us at all? We need to show ourselves and the rest will follow for being who we are đ
Cheers…
Mayura recently posted..How to Schedule Your Posts in Blogger
Thanks a lot, Mayura. You are absolutely right – be yourself and the rest will follow! You’re a very wise young man! đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
Great way to exercise those muscles (the creative ones). Also a good one is to start writing from a lyrics in a song (this is my favorite).. I like where you went with the poem. I liked the line from the book, as well, I carry around a notebook when I am creating characters (actually the journal is always with me in the event I see someone I need to document) anyway, while creating a character.. I write down everything I think she/he should be… eventually, I weed it down, but in the beginning.. she might have glossy chopped short black hair, slim hips, is leggy and had a fine swell of calf. People watch – it’s a gas!
Brenda recently posted..Letter From My Childhood
Oh wow, Brenda. What I wouldn’t do to spend some time with you watching you create those characters. I love the idea of carrying around a journal to write down stuff as it occurs to you. Something I must do. The lyrics prompt is something I’m going to try out soon.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Corinne, this is a great poem! I have learnt something new about you today đ You go girl!
Nelieta recently posted..A Moment in Time No.96
Thanks, Nelieta. Take care.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
Alright!! I’ve made my attempt with poetry!! Its terrible! But, I’ve written it!! đ
Please be kind.. and please don’t stop visiting my blog!!
http://mytakeoneverything9.wordpress.com/2013/01/26/the-7x7x7x7-writing-prompt/
Pixie recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
And I’m still smiling. đ Please add your link to the linky here, Pixie!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Deprivation Is NOT The Key To Wellness
This is a fab idea…and your poem is too good .
I will join đ
Thanks, Janaki.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Great idea. Wish I had time to participate just now but while I am typing this on my phone, my mother is nattering away and I am not going to get away with it much longer! I even try to squeeze things in while waiting for kettle to boil or making dinner! So much writing to do, so little time.
You sound really busy, Claire. Thanks for making the time to stop by. đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..This Moment {18 January 2013}
Corinne! Smart idea and beautiful poem. I can probably relate to some of those emotions because in the past couple of years I have felt like there’s two sides to me too. One that’s among friends and fears to reveal her true emotions for fear of being judged and the other that’s getting stronger by the day – the true true one. Here’s to finding the true you! I did mine too and have linked it!
Deepa recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Thanks, Deepa for joining the prompt. I’m glad that we’re all working towards being ourselves!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Hi Corinne,
Your poem was both beautiful and powerful.
It seems like you and I have both been experiencing similar emotions with regards to not being accepted by everyone for being our real selves.
I too have been trying to me more authentic and it is scary. Your words have inspired me to continue doing what I am. Thank you.
Thank you so much, Hiten. I would love to hear more about your experiences with not being accepted for being you. I am learning to say “This is me. If you don’t like what you see, go look elsewhere!” đ
Here’s to us continuing to find our way back to ourselves!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Now, that ‘s tempting me to do something…I’m not sure if I’ll be able to write poetry….:-)
Give it a try, Latha. You won’t know until you do! đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
This is an interesting approach. I enjoyed every bit of the poem. I was tempted to join in but it is quite unfortunate the books around are not up to 7.
My poem will be ready tomorrow.
Thank you. Looking forward to reading your poem when it’s ready!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
The headline is stunning and will definitely make someone to click the post.
What makes it more meaningful is the content and the way in which you have applied it..
Radical girl Corrine..Hats off to your amazing skill in trying new things out, whether it be reading challenge or 7*7*7*7 or showcasing your life in just a photograph..
Sincerely,
Inspiring Citizen Rafi
Inspiring Citizen Rafi recently posted..See How 18 Year Old Ammar Ali Built A Blog Worth $1,16,665 In 12 Months – A Straightforward Interview With Him
Thank you, Rafi. Your comments are always encouraging! đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Hi Corinne,
Thanks for sharing ,i am a new to your blog,i have came some days back to read Hiten guest Post.And this is the second post i am readingyours .Nice sharing platform must say.
Ok now the article is great and the poem holds meaning that relate me too and reflect your thoughts.
Thank You
Shorya Bist
From Youthofest
Shorya Bist recently posted..How to concentrate on studies?
Thanks you for coming by again, Shorya. I’ve been seeing you around on some blogs I frequent. Will drop by at your blog soon.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Your most welcome to Youthofest.Hope to see you soon on my blog.
Cheers!
Shorya Bist recently posted..How to live a happy life?
Will be there later today, Shorya.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Wow Corinne, I am so impressed. Well done!
Kathy
http://gigglingtruckerswife.blogspot.com
Kathy recently posted..Emotional Retreat
Thanks so much, Kathy. Joining in? đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
What an interesting exercise! And how perfect that you picked up a book with that title. You come up with some intriguing writing exercises. But what about the part about the real you?
Galen Pearl recently posted..Seeking Silence in a Noisy World
I enjoyed the prompt, Galen and I see it caught the imagination of quite a few people.
I’m a little confused about your question “what about the part about the real you?”.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
This looks like a big challenge! Will try it!
OtienoHongo recently posted..Final Reflections (For 2012)
Look forward to reading your post on this, Charles. đ
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Nice to see so many of our mutual Blogger friends jump on to this creative bandwagon! I wish I was half decent as a poet…I may have attempted this too!
Rickie Khosla recently posted..Five (Indian) People You Meet (Near) Heaven : (Decidedly Not) By Mitch Albom
I’m sure you can do it, Rickie. You’re one of the most creative bloggers/writers I know!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
This is simply a fabulous creative challenge, Corinne. Though I am poetically challenged, I attempted to write some 7 lines. đ
Shilpa Garg recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Prompt
Thanks, Shilpa. Poetically challenged? Now that’s a new one for sure! You did a cool job, anyway! đ
That was a good one, Corinne and a great message as well.
Btw, you hv stopped posting on Indiblogger, have you? Been following you through there and hadn’t seen any post by you in “Posts from my network”. I come over here and find you have been very active indeed. đ
C. Suresh recently posted..Uff Ye Emotions on Pre-order
Hi Suresh – Thank you. I’ve kind of given up on the blogging forums except those on Facebook. Thanks for coming over. I hope you’re doing okay.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Am fine, Corinne! Thanks for the concern.
C. Suresh recently posted..Uff Ye Emotions on Pre-order
Glad to hear that, Suresh. Congratulations on the book.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Law Of Abundance At Work?
Love your poem, Corinne.
Love the writing prompt! Xxx
my inner chick recently posted..Distractions, Green Pastures, & Still Waters
Thanks so much, Kim.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Power Of Prayer
I love 7 and to multiply it several times is a real wow đ
Thanks for the initiative you always take BS… it’s amazing and challenging.
I love the poem you composed ~ it is profound… I think the very first person to accept who we really are is ourself… it is a very humbling experience…
melissa recently posted..Immersed: First part
You love 7? I’m wondering why? Could it be because I was born on the 7th? đ
Thank you for enjoying my poem. You’re so right, we have to learn first to accept ourselves, before we show true selves to the world. Love you, Mel.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth