Why serve through the arts?

Chances are we have all been touched by some form of the arts. Whether by passing a saxophonist on a busy street, seeing an incredible play at a theater, turning a corner to be surprised by a thought-provoking mural, dancing in a car to a happy song, sitting for hours crafting something meaningful, molding clay, or playing the piano, we can’t deny that the arts make something in us come alive. They remind us that we’re human, that we're connected to something greater than ourselves. They help us understand what is happening inside of us. We use the arts because, for some situations, it’s the best tool we have. While people tire out, some forms of art work 24/7 giving hope and comfort to its viewers. Whether we are eating or just entering a building or playing in the park, the artwork around us can set the tone for the whole environment. It can cause us to think about beautiful things, noble things, hopeful things, things that are true, that are admirable, that touch our spirits. The arts silence the worry mechanisms in our brain and switch on the parts that experience deep enjoyment. (Review our Scientific Evidence page to see more research on art and neuroscience.) They can remind us that we’re not alone, that each day has a new beginning, that beauty resides in each of us, that our inside is more important than our outside, that suffering can lead to victory, along with a thousand other truths that give us hope. The arts have a unique ability to naturally bring people together from all walks of life. Serving through the arts is nothing more than sharing what you enjoy with others. What could be more simple than that?