A couple of weeks ago I stumbled across a great blog by author Jody Hedlund www.jodyhedlund.blogspot.com and it has opened up a new world to me, a world of authors (both published and aspiring), agents, teachers and readers. People who love what I love and who understand where I am coming from. It's been a breath of fresh air.
Before, as I sat alone at my computer, I felt like I was the only person in the world with a dream, now I am surrounded by a sea of dreamers, who are willing to offer their time, knowledge and talents with others who have the same dream. Not only do they challenge me to push myself and go deeper, they have also offered me hope. Hope that I can gain the skills I need to take my talent and passion and weave an unforgettable story that will leave my readers begging for more (pause to imagine...). *Sigh*
I have also found these people to be helpful in finding resources. One book that was recommended was "A Novel Idea." It was written by many well-known, successful authors and I have been devouring it! The book is full of advice and tips on how to craft a novel. I've already put some of it into practice with editing my manuscript.
The introduction to the book spoke right to me and grabbed me by the heart, tugging at the dreams I've kept there for so many years, pulling them and urging me to keep going on this journey. The intro talks about the importance of telling a good story, of using metaphors and examples, drawing from our faith and our experiences, of weaving the Truth into the very fabric of our tales. God uses stories to relate the Truth throughout the Bible. Jesus was a master at telling Truth through parables and stories. It is an honor to be given that gift, but it is also a great responsibility. These words, by Amy Wallace, say it all: "When we as writers take our fears, beliefs, imaginations and research and offer them up for the Lord to use, we are changed, and our fiction carries the power of truth and the fingerprints of our God on every page."
I am so thankful I have found other people who I can relate to. A journey is always more fun to take with a friend.
So much more fun with a friend! I started this three years ago with no idea what I was doing and feeling completely alone (and feeling kinda weird to be trying to attempt a book in the first place). But I've met people just like me along the way, and I'm so glad to connect with you! It's a lonely pursuit and I'm still learning. Helps to have people to talk to, though. Good job on the blog!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your encouraging words! I have been dreaming about that elusive "someday" when I would finally get serious and start writing my books, but I got busy having a family and the books continued to be put on the back burner. I feel like my children are of an age where I am finally ready to tackle it. I am so thankful that there is such an active community of writers out there. What genre do you write? How far are you with your book? By the way, thanks for following my blog - you're my first non-family/friend member. :)
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ReplyDeleteGabrielle, So fun to find that writing is your passion, too! You have 2 wonderful blogs - and beautiful kids:) I just wanted to stop by and thank you for visiting my blog and leaving such kind cover comments. Also thought I'd pass on 2 of my favorite writing blogs you might find helpful. If you google them they should come right up. The first is MaryLu Tyndall and then Kaye Dacus.
ReplyDeletePrayers with you as you pursue your writing dream:) It's quite an adventure! God is so good!!
Laura, I appreciate you taking the time visit my blogs and thank you for the kind words. I have been dreaming for quite a while, and working at my stories on and off for over 10 years, hoping to one day be published. When I had my twins it all came to a standstill - for good reason!
DeleteA couple of months ago I found "The Colonel's Lady" and then "Courting Morrow Little" and I am honest when I say that those two books gave me the inspiration to pick up my fiction writing again and see where it takes me. I started visiting blogs (yours was the first!) and finding out that a whole world existed that I didn't even know about. Thank you for pursing your own dream - it rubbed off on me.
Wow, I'm honored my books inspired you to get inspired:) That's such a blessing to hear! My own writing came to a complete halt when my boys were small and I took 5 yrs off. I promise to pray for you as you move forward - love your enthusiasm!
DeleteWow, I am honored that you would offer to pray for me as I move ahead. I've been sharing with my family and friends what an amazing community of writers I am finding online. It's a testament to the commitment Christian writers make to their ministry, knowing we are all parts of the Body of Christ, each doing our part, not in competition with the others, but in communion. I will promise to be in prayer for your book release and for favor to be upon it. Thank you!
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