Secret to a Writer's Life

A writer's life is an interesting one. No two days are alike; at least not in my world. I'm continually tweaking my time, working to arrive at the perfect combination of writing/stuff I'd rather not be doing.

To be a better writer, I've read books and studied from the best. I've attended conferences where I've sat under the best professionals in this business. I'm blessed to live in an area that is accessible to an abundance of quality resources.

Something I look forward to and couldn't do without, are my relationships with other writers. We learn from each other and support one another. There's Katy, who's my sister from another mother,  as we call each other, and Laura, my friend and mentor. I look up to them spiritually, as well.

I share my space with my sweet boy, Buck

But the point is this:

What do I do with all I've learned? What goes on in my head, at my desk, when I'm alone, with my legal pad and pencil before me in the quiet of my writing space? The experts say you should write until something makes sense. What works for them, may not work for me, or the next writer. We each have to find our way.

It is useless and unproductive for me to sit at my desk and stare at the blank page until something is dropped into my brain. However, if I get my hands into my flower garden pulling weeds, or go for a long walk, something will invariably come to mind that begs to be written. Bam…weeds pulled…muscles toned…blog post written.

The book I'm writing is a different animal altogether. There is a story I'm trying to tell; my story. I know the beginning, middle and ending. My difficulties have nothing to do with writing the book and everything to do with the next steps.

If only we could write and press the publish key and our work was available for all to read; for all to catch our vision; hear our voice.

We each have a voice to share; not the voice of the fellow writer we admire, but our voice. I had to learn my voice was unique, the one God gave me; the one He wanted to share His message through.

I was complaining to Him one day about the words I'd written on my blog that day. He quietly spoke these words to my heart, "Maybe I won't give you anymore words."

I quickly asked forgiveness and told Him I'd write whatever He gave me.

I learned a valuable lesson that day. Writing is a gift from God. It's not mine to hold onto. It's not better than or less than any other gift. I've lived my entire life thinking I was less than, but God gave me something to do for Him. So, I'll write the words He gives me. End of Sentence. Period.

It's important to have those we can do life with; those that share our interests and dreams. How do you shape your days? If you're a writer, what works for you? Do you have a group or even one friend you can trust, to share your life with? I'd love to hear from you in the comments.


You can find me writing at my blog, My Little Corner, http://www.cindyobrien78.blogspot.com.