I spend a lot of time thinking about writing. Reading about writing. Talking about writing.
The only thing missing is the actual writing. Of course, I write almost every day for my work. But that doesn't exactly count.
I carve out time for my personal writing and then decide to throw in a load of laundry. Or download that music I just know is going to inspire me. Or remember something I have to read before I start--a chapter from Bird by Bird or that great passage from On Writing.
All too often, fear stops me in my tracks.
Yesterday, I wrote. The fear didn't disappear, I just wrote while it played at my feet.
Here's what I learned, all over again: When I step forward in faith, I am met. The words appear. The story finds its way. Life moves forward.
Some parts are better than others. Some won't survive rewrites. But they are there, they give me a place to start. I myself am the Keeper of My Words and my first responsibility is to show up.
7 comments:
Oh, my dear, I have so been there (like, most days, to be honest). You're right, though, when we actually sit down to write, it comes, doesn't it? We just need to have a little more faith in ourselves.
I'll make you a deal, when you start to find other things to do, hear my voice in your head saying, "Jerri, you are an extraordinary writer! Please give me more!" and I'll do the same.
Love you.
We have to face our fear - move towards it!
So much easier said than done. I had a painting teacher tall me once, that it didn't matter if you painted - you just had to go to the studio every day - and at some point the fear will dissolve and you will be able to do what you are there for.
You're a beautiful writer - just do it.
I was told by someone I very much trust, that it's part of the process. Even when we aren't/can't write that the process is still going on in our hearts and our heads. It's part of the ritual of the writer.
With you my friend, I am quite sure that process never stops and you always show up.
Love
Suzy
Man, do I love that image: we continue to write while the fear plays at our feet.
That truly is the way of the writer.
Awesome, awesome, awesome discovery Jerri.
You are such an inspiration!
You inspire me my friend! I pray that you find the healing that lives in the writing that is so hard to face. That fear at your feet will eventually get tired and need a nap if you stick with it long enough. Much love.
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