Ms. Claire Coenen shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Claire, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
Definitely, wandering!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes, I am writer and facilitator, who is passionate about the intersection of creativity, healing, and spirituality. Two year ago, I left my work as in the mental health field to write my first book, The Beautiful Keeps Breathing, and now I offer a variety of online and in-person groups that focus on generative writing, SoulCollage®, and creativity as a life-giving practice. I also work one-on-one with writers seeking guidance and encouragement. My background as a clinical social worker and yoga instructor really informs the way I connect with people. I have a deep trust that there is inherent wisdom in the mind, body, and soul of every person, and the creative process helps us to uncover that core wisdom.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
As a child, I had a wild imagination and felt a lot of power creating and engaging in the worlds I created. Whether I was reuniting an orphaned stuffed animal with a long, lost parent or stealing a magic broom from a wicked witch in the woods behind my house, I played the part of the heroine in the stories of my own making. The imagination is an incredible psychological resource that kids tap into naturally. In recent years, I’ve discovered that when I give myself the permission to do any creative practice (writing, collage, singing) without putting any pressure on myself to create something “good,” I reconnect to the joy and power I felt as a kid playing.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
In an essay I recently read by Anne Lammott, she describes compassion as “the love that arises out of suffering.” This resonates for me a lot. And when I think about it, it is clear to me that success has never taught me to be a more compassionate person, but suffering sure has. I’m thinking about the great line from Leonard Cohen– “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” Suffering always exposes the cracks in my human-ness, and there is a beautiful potential in those cracks.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe that every human carries a divine spark, a true essence. We all have the capacity to tend to that divine spark in ways that ignite more meaning and joy in life. I am committed to discovering and living out my own inner essence. I am also passionate about encouraging the people I work with to seek and stoke their own divine sparks. In my experience, creative practices can be doorways that lead us toward that intrinsic sacred essence.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope I am remembered as someone who lived her essence. I hope my creative work creates ripples of love, joy, and courage in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clairecoenen.com
- Instagram: claire.coenen
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-coenen-779b7b130
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095173154699
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