There are writers of words I have been reading for some time. Seasoned writers who weave words like art, who paint with words, and who ooze words right out of their very souls. Meaningful words that move and inspire. Words that pierce hearts with beauty and truth. And I just returned from Relevant where I met so many creative writers in real life. Writers who are changing the world, one post at a time.
And I’m learning that writing is not just a gift that someone simply possesses. While it’s true that writing IS easier for some than for others, I’m learning a new truth that I never knew before–one that never even occurred to me:
Writing is a discipline, and it is not for the faint of heart.
And that is what really scares me.
I’m not a writer.
I wrote my very first blog post about that fact. And yes, I’ve been told I’m a writer because I write. But after being in the presence of such giftedness and experience, I’m really not sure I am a writer … yet …
But, I’m discovering, in my lack of confidence and newness to this craft, that there may be some hope amidst my doubting and overwhelmed heart. It is the hope, wisdom, and encouragement that has come to me from others who write–others who are not only gifted, but have also worked really hard to become fantastic writers. And they want to help me learn to write too, by laying before me their words of wisdom and advice…
Practice. That’s it. Just write. Be disciplined. Work hard. Write. Words. Every. Day. Kill your adverbs. Work hard some more. Keep writing. Kill your adjectives. Know you’ll write a “stinky” first draft. But write anyway. Don’t use the same grammar patterns. Write when inspired. Write when you’re not. Write and know that the inspiration will follow. Writing is a discipline. So.Just.Persevere. Garner Tenacity. Did I mention keep writing?? Practice. Find your voice. Dance the words in cadence. Be uniquely you. Give life to your thoughts. Be transparent. Be authentic. Open your heart and be real. Help others identify with you. Just start. Begin. Just write.
And in these post-Relevant moments, I’m actually a bit terrified to write anything. And I’m feeling a bit paralyzed to “just write” and not worry if it is “just right”.
Yet, these recent feelings and pondering have reminded me of a post I read a while ago. The wise words of Jon Acuff, giving life-changing advice that is etched in my heart and burned into my mind:
And I’m at my beginning, and my beginning is the start … and I long to be a good writer no matter how long it takes.
And so, amidst my fear and apprehension, setting my insecurities aside, I’m determined to write…
Determined because others need to experience the vastness of His mercy and feel the winds of His grace.
Determined to make boisterous thunder, in this, my little internet space … pointing others to the Living Water who is longing to rain down on their dry and thirsty souls.
Determined that they might leave this place saying “Mercy Found Me” and “I met Grace”… feeling surrounded by His never-ending love, and overwhelmed by the hope and joy it brings.
And because of this, even though I’m at my beginning, I will write. I will go slow and get better over time, and in the process may God be glorified in me.
John 15:8 (NASB) My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.
Yay! I’m glad you are writing. It is so much more fun to write in community. And, yes, writing IS a discipline – and most certainly not for the faint of heart! (I’m okay with an occasional adverb.) 🙂 I hope you’re having a wonderful day!
keep writing jacque! you do very well for not being a writer:) loved meeting you at relevant! so glad mercy found you! love, m
I was really impressed with that, too: that it is work and that we just need to write. I tend to like writing when I’ve really mulled over something, but I came away from Relevant (and conversations with you!) challenged to write when it’s not all put together too, to live in that tension between mulled over and vulnerable. Loved the list summary, here, too.
Jacque! That was captivating!! Even if you are at your beginning, that was truly wonderful! You held my attention and kept me wanting more. Good job!! I look forward to reading more!
And all those writers you listed? Aren’t they all magnificent?
I went through a season when I tried to mirror others writing style, and in the process I lost my own voice [not literally–my writing voice].
I can’t write like someone else, because it’s simply not me and I won’t do it nearly as well!
God made me very detail oriented. I may not write poetically or lyrically, but I find I write thoroughly. 🙂
Blessings!
Wonderful, Jaque! Just keep going! I feel like you do south of the time!! So glad I got
To hug you!! 😉 can’t wait to read more of your writing, sweet friend
And if that’s your beginning, then your middle is going to be over the top! Beautiful, strong, and true writing, Jacque. Thank you for sharing.
(And I love your interpretation of “stinky”. ;))
Oh, I love this, friend! What great reminders of our powerful weekend! And girl, you are a better word weaver than you may know….glad to have met you!! Thanks for your kind words and heart!
Oh my!! I LOVE this post! And I am taking a stab at writing… But I NEED to learn so much… And now… Even MORE!! Journaling is helping… But your post SCARES me 🙂 love you… This really did inspire me!
But your words are so beautiful! And I’ve looked through your archives… more beauty. I think your beginning just may be my middle… ;o)
Okay, I’m planning an adverb or two just for you! Thank you friend for your kind words 😉
And Martha…I LOVED meeting you too. Thank you for visiting me here, friend!
Ah yes, work. just.plain.work. So blessed to have met you Annie, truly!
Oh Christin, thank you for your sweet words of encouragement, for me to find my OWN voice and not be afraid. May your day be blessed!
Yes, to meet in real life, how special that was!
Oh Gretchen, thank you for that…and how fun it was to meet you and your little one over breakfast that morning…a delight! And yes, the interpretation of Anne Lamott’s verbage…I couldn’t resist. 🙂
Powerful indeed, and thank you for your kindness and grace…
And we ALL need to learn so much…thank you for visiting me here and for your encouragement, truly. It means SO very much to me!
Thank you for the grace of your words…
Your post was very well said. I love John Acuff, by the way. He’s got lots of wisdom and he always knows how to share it – usually with some humor. =) I am a Pastor’s Wife and I often find that I’m comparing myself to others and I have to remember that while I’ve been doing this for a while – I’m looking at ladies that have been doing it for 20-25 years! I have a lot of learning and growing to do. Thank you for this post. Such a great reminder. Besides, God’s Word tells us we’re not to compare ourselves among ourselves anyway… ah…if it were that easy. lol