I'm a geeky toy collector, and to have toys of your own

"I'm a geeky toy collector, and to have toys of your own characters is unbelievably cool." These words, spoken by Craig McCracken, creator of beloved animated shows like The Powerpuff Girls, speak to a deeper sense of pride, imagination, and self-expression. To McCracken, the simple act of collecting toys—especially toys based on his own creations—represents more than just a hobby; it is a symbol of accomplishment and connection to the worlds and characters he has brought to life. In his humble confession, there is a recognition of the joy and satisfaction that comes from seeing one's own imagination manifest into something tangible, something that others can hold, admire, and even cherish. It is a celebration of creativity and the fulfillment of watching one's ideas take physical form.

The ancients understood the deep connection between the creator and their creation. In ancient Greek mythology, Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths and craftsmanship, took great pride in his work, crafting magical objects and weapons for the gods. His creations were not merely tools; they were extensions of his will, reflections of his vision, and symbols of his skill. Just as Hephaestus shaped the world with his hands, so too does McCracken shape the world with his imagination. To see his creations transformed into physical objects, like toys, is akin to Hephaestus seeing his intricate work come to life—tools not just for utility, but as representations of his legacy and artistry.

Consider, too, the story of Leonardo da Vinci, whose works of art and invention went far beyond the canvas. Da Vinci’s inventions, like his flying machines and mechanical devices, were reflections of his creative genius. While many of his designs were never built in his lifetime, they have since inspired generations of engineers and dreamers. Imagine, then, how da Vinci might have felt to see his creations brought to life—his inventions, like McCracken’s toys, would be expressions of his boundless vision and passion. In both cases, the joy comes not just from the act of creating, but from seeing one’s vision exist beyond the mind’s eye and become something real and tangible.

McCracken’s words also highlight the importance of celebrating the journey of creation. Toys, in their simplest form, are objects of joy and wonder—but when they reflect the work of an artist’s imagination, they become symbols of something far deeper. To have toys based on his own characters is, for McCracken, a moment of recognition, a reminder that his creative energy has touched not just his own life, but the lives of countless others. Similarly, in ancient cultures, the act of creating symbols—be it in the form of statues, paintings, or weapons—was not only a way to express art, but to leave a legacy for future generations. The physical representation of these creations was a way to immortalize the artist’s vision and make it enduring.

The joy McCracken expresses also points to the human need for recognition and the importance of preserving our legacies. Just as the Romans celebrated the achievements of their emperors with statues and monuments, so too does McCracken celebrate his own achievements through the creation of toys. These toys are not merely playthings—they are symbols of the creativity, effort, and vision that went into creating a universe of characters that have touched the hearts of many. For him, to hold these toys is to hold a piece of his own creative journey, to witness the fruits of his labor and imagination made real. This is the heart of what it means to be a creator: to bring something into existence that was once only an idea, and to see it live and thrive in the hands of others.

In our own lives, the lesson McCracken offers is one of celebrating our creations, whatever they may be. Whether we are artists, writers, inventors, or builders, there is great joy in seeing our ideas take form. Take pride in the things you bring into existence, and do not underestimate the value of those creations. They are not simply products—they are expressions of who you are, and they carry a part of you with them. Let creativity flow through you, and understand that the act of creation is not just about making something useful—it is about leaving a mark on the world, something that carries your vision into the future.

So, as you move forward, embrace your own creative power. Do not shy away from the joy that comes from bringing your ideas into the world, whether they are grand or simple. Like McCracken, find meaning in the things you create, and know that they are not just reflections of your skill but expressions of your soul. Celebrate your creations, and let them stand as symbols of your journey. Whether in art, business, or relationships, the act of creation is a sacred one. When you see your own creations come to life—when you hold them in your hands—you are reminded that you, too, are a part of something far greater than yourself, and your influence will live on through the joy and meaning they bring to others.