"All writing comes by the grace of God."
---Ralph Waldo Emerson
There's no doubt that writing can be a very challenging way to earn a living. Full of ups and downs, upheaval, editors here, gone tomorrow, industry changes. Not to mention the feast and famine cycle.
You know the script: one month, your writing income finances an expensive vacation. The next month you're surviving off of Ramen Noodles and prayer. Can I get an Amen? :-)
Still, writing affords many benefits and blessings. I am reminded of this fact this evening, when I signed on a new client, with whom I'm proud to have a hand in bringing her story to the public.
And though I've earned pay for penning everything from slogans, to poetry, to blog posts, to silly fillers, I am so honored to have work that not only allows me to make a living, but to make a difference.
Bragging aside, over the last few years, I've helped to edit a book on domestic violence, thereby potentially saving the lives of women of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds worldwide. I've assisted others in finding publishers that produced books that memorialized their loved ones. I've even coached and mentored others to make their first sale; which has been more gratifying than I can put into words.
So, I ask you today readers, what do you find "spiritual" about writing? What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career? Do tell.
Image: Freedigitalphotos.net
I believe that there are no concidences and we are all inter-connected, somehow. I feel obliged to offer suggestions and advice, and always help those just learning the ropes. I'm most proud of my ability to write. To date, it would be having one of my true stories included in Gloria Gaynor's anthology, We Will Survive. This inspirational book will help others. Meeting Ms. Gaynor was a huge thrill.
ReplyDeleteLinda,
DeleteI'm not surprised that you listed your Gloria Gaynor work; that's pretty "major league" I'd say! :-)
I wish I would have known about it in time to submit.
Thanks for making a "cameo" appearance here today. LOL
Writing not only helps me sort through what's going in in my own life, but my students as well. Last year I discovered through a journal entry that one of my students was cutting herself. I was able to get her the help she needed.
ReplyDeleteWow. That's deep. Glad that you were able to be of assistance with your student. Thanks for sharing this.
DeleteI'm told that somewhere in the spiritual texts of India there is a passage that says (translated of course) I am that, you are that, all of this is that and that's all there is. I can't prove it however I believe it. When a reader comments on what I've written, that to me is spiritual.
ReplyDeleteHmmm...interesting. Thanks for sharing. :-)
DeleteMy prayer is that my writing would bless others, informing, helping, encouraging, and whatnot. Writing brings much joy and a feeling of being where I am supposed to be, my calling, if you will. It has also produced benefits such as friendships with kindred spirits like you. :) Since I believe that nothing happens by chance, and my steps are divinely ordered by God, as with life, it is indeed a spiritual journey.
ReplyDeleteGood feeback Karen; thank you for the compliment.:-)
DeleteJust curious...What do you think is the difference between a "passion" and a "calling"? I hear so many people refer to writing as their "calling," when in fact, it may not be...
I don't know if it's really about what I personally am proud of, it might be more about the Excitement of being asked to be part of Inspirational Projects, and accomplishing lot's of amazing things.
ReplyDeleteHi, H.P.,
DeleteThanks so much for connecting and adding to the mix.
My writing is spiritual in that I endeavor to give something to the reader that either delights them, makes them think, or helps them to feel not so all alone out there. I feel guided to do that, though not 100% of the time. Sometimes it's just tomfoolery. But God can be in that, too. Winking.
ReplyDeleteSue,
DeleteHow true. :-) It's always nice to hear from you here.
I think a passion is simply something you love. A calling is something your can't get away from. You can't NOT do it. That's how God has worked in my life, anyway. I'm with Karen, in that I want my writing to encourage or sympathize or enlighten. I do believe God directs our words, if we invite him to. I wrote a high school curriculum on character education that was used here in our county for 11 years. God equipped me to do that, and I'm grateful that we reached so many kids. I'm currently working a hands-on book about a Christmas project for families. I'm taking a course on marketing to help direct me in how to promote it. I just found you through another blog, and am going to follow, b/c I love finding other believers in the blogosphere. :-)
ReplyDeletemare ball,
DeleteWelcome! Welcome! Glad to have you join us. Not sure what blog you found me on, but glad we had the opportunity to connect. You provide good input here. I look forward to our future exchanges! :-)