Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Writing (01/11/07)
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TITLE: Our Authentic Voice | Previous Challenge Entry
By Judy Sauer
01/17/07 -
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Writing is a call from within. For some it is a burden to bear that keeps them awake when they should be sleeping. We fight an inner battle that is often fraught with trepidation of being judged. The rush of feelings can be overwhelming yet we continue moving forward, hopefully, and gratefully by the grace of God. There is a strong desire to make the emotional, philosophical, or spiritual connections with others. We cross our fingers and pray that we have hit the mark.
Our ideas, thoughts, hopes, dreams, and life challenges play out on paper as we string together nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adjectives all with the intent of creating color-filled masterpieces; works of art where words add definition and hue to the landscape of our great writing.
Some courageous souls push aside their inhibitions and freely share their authentic voice. Yet for others come struggles filled with fear, perfectionism, or a sense of dread from receiving critiques. These writers often keep their voices silent except for what they have written in their journals or computers. Oh how I wish they could trust that the world is not as harsh as it may appear at times. I want to hear what they have to say and I pray that you find a way.
With pen in hand and paper on my lap, I begin pouring out my soul. Words flow, yet at times they do not. When that happens I question my calling to write. I assess my tales to see if the stories make sense, if my transitions are strong and smooth. My biggest concern is if the words will actually make a connection for the readers. There is so much to wonder and care about, to cradle, nurture, and even release as we travel on our writing journeys.
Through writing we learn a lot but mostly about ourselves, inside and out; what makes us tick and what ticks us off. We reveal naked truths that may be difficult to place on paper because the messages become very real and quite clear. By writing though, we legitimize our talents and strengths while also revealing where we have areas for improvement. Since none of us are perfect there will always remain room for growth.
Writers are curious beings for we feel the incessant inner call. We guard our words so closely to prevent being judged. Yet unless we share our efforts how will we know the greatness of our work and where our growth opportunities await us to try.
When I read another’s creative words displayed across the page, at times I say “Can I write like this too?” or “Oh what a wonderful feeling it must be to have people marvel over one’s talent.” In one split second I feel encouraged yet daunted by the power of the written word. God help me.
So keep on writing, one and all. We are driven to write as we have all heard the call. Write to your heart’s content, and share your views for others to vent. Oh their venting can be affirming words of grace or guidance on how to improve on a particular space. Trust that the process is imperfect, just like we, and know that the next article is waiting to be conceived. Allow the words to percolate within and eventually pour out what has been brewed to the brim.
To write is to breathe, and to breathe is to live. To live is to love, and to love is to know God. We praise God’s goodness when using the talents bestowed upon us by our maker. So let’s go forward, unabashed with shame, guilt, or fear for our creator has tasked us with a special talent, one that we hold every so close and very dear.
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So true, Great job very encouraging to having read a piece I can truly relate to.