Invoking the Tenth Muse

How can my Muse want subject to invent,
While thou dost breathe, that pour’st into my verse
Thine own sweet argument, too excellent
For every vulgar paper to rehearse? -William Shakespeare

I recently had a very meaningful conversation with friend who is a breast cancer survivor. We were discussing the unfortunate things people say to suffering people. Just as she started to give an example that perfectly suited my situation, we ran out of time. "No worries!" she said, as she promptly printed out her blog on the topic and handed it to me as I rushed out the door. The blog was so apropros- just what I needed to hear. A cherished friend from high school also started a fascinating blog. It's been such a treat to read his thoughts on different topics. It's so rare to have the time to talk at length with others. I recently wrote in his blog, “...(certain) topics banned from polite conversation are the only ones that really matter, and they determine how we should treat every living person, animal and thing on this planet (the planet itself for that matter)- not to mention consider the substance of every other possible dimension! These (discussions) lead to true intimacy with other people and critical thought, both no-nos in our culture...”

I've worked in the field of mental health for over fifteen years. Some of the most profound sentiments I've ever heard have come from very unlikely people. Even opinions with which I did not agree, when spoken with conviction, can be magnificent in their daring. How can human beings come to well considered conclusions without conversation? Hearing passionate discourse of significance is like poetry to my ears. Poetry I seldom hear.

I hope to do my part to contribute to a revolution of people striving for connection, which leads to significance. Sonnet 38 helps ground my efforts. Shakespeare names the muses of artistic inspiration the “old nine” who “rhymers invocate.” There is no comparison with the “tenth Muse,” whose “sweet argument” is “too excellent” and beyond the reach of the commonplace. The sonnet acknowledges the true Source of inspiration: the Ultimate Poet, “the tenth muse,” Truth and Perfect Expression.

Here's to sweet arguments.