What is the "upside" to suffering from bipolar illness?

I know that being plagued with a mental illness is no easy trip, but i would like to know if despite this, and focusing solely on bipolar illness, has anyone found that the sparks of creativity brought about by manic states, have led them to feel that their initial problem ( being bipolar) can be put to good use and be also remain a source to draw from on in times that are less smooth.