Writing is not for the faint of heart. I’ve often thought about closing my laptop and giving up on this writing dream. Those close to me have heard me whine and whisper words of defeat so much, they don’t bat an eye when I grumble. They know I’ll get through it, but sometimes I wonder.
Not Writing and Missing You
I skipped sending you a post in July because I wasn’t sure what to say. In June, I wrote about how we need to listen to our stories and that I had figured out what my roadblock was in finishing Book 2 in the Silver Rim Series, but then I stalled, and my main character Ren just sat there looking at me like I’m an idiot and don’t know her at all.
Write What You Know
People keep telling me good writing flows from what you know, that I should dig deep, face the depths, and use what I’ve experienced to fuel my stories. I’m trying to do this, but it’s not easy. In an effort to unpack some of my issues, I’m reading The One-Life Solution by Dr. Henry Cloud. If you’ve ever read his Boundaries book, then this one is similar. Fear, it seems, is at the root of a lack of boundaries and self-awareness. Maybe that’s my problem. I’m scared to go deep.
Diving In
I guess whether you’re fifteen or fifty-five, growing up requires diving into the depths. It demands we take a look at what’s underneath and make a choice about what we see. Are we the person we want to be? The one we thought we would be? Is real change possible or are we destined to spin our wheels, make the same mistakes, and never finish our story?
If real change were dependent on me, I might say it is impossible. Too many years and my own genetics are working against me. But it’s not all on me. I’ve started prefacing my writing times with prayer. And when I can’t figure out what’s next, I pray. I write, and I pray, and I push onward, even if it’s only a few words. And I don’t give up because this is part of me. I might never write a bestseller, but I’m determined to write my best, even if I have to wade through the muck of my own heart to do it.
How About You?
Is the road you’re on longer than you wanted it to be? Can you take a step and pray and then take another step? Or wait and pray and hold on to hope?
I’d love to hear from you. You can reply back to this email or find me on social media. I respond to every email. I’m so thankful for each of you, and I know you have your own struggles and victories. I would be privileged to walk with you on your journey and pray for you. Please stay in touch!
Check out my short story “The Door” on page 41.
