The Official Writing Challenge
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Date
10/19/07
Neat illustration. I will remember this.
10/20/07
Wonderful extended metaphor!
What a great analogy. We as Christian sure feel this way. Sometimes I find myself just pounding my head on the side of the bowl!!! Great writing, well done!
10/23/07
I noticed a few grammatical errors that could be remedied by a little proof reading, but I enjoyed your story. I'm not in the ministry, but all Christians experience these pressures at one time or another. It's good to be able to indulge in a conference or seminar that will renew our spiits. Very good.
10/24/07
Very creative extended metaphor - enjoyed how central it was to your point. Good stuff!
You communicate your feelings very well here. I got a very good word picture of what your family is going through.

You asked for tips. One thing I would suggest is to make your first sentence simple and strong. Perhpas you could say: "Families in Ministry and Fish have a lot in common." Or "Many Pastors and their families feel like they are living in a fish bowl." Sometimes shorter sentences can help clarify your message. I think you need a mix of long and short sentences.

Like I said, you are a good communicator. Good job!
10/24/07
It's clever to put the word "icky" in there! Anyone with an aquarium knows that fish get a disease called "ick". You were able to have that theme flow effectively through the article. I agree; a little fresh water is good for the spirit!
I'm familiar with what the toxic effects of what fish-bowl pastorates can do to a marriage and a family. I think pastors and their wives need to take time out often (especially in surroundings where they can be alone with God and His creation) to replenish and refresh both their spirits and their marriages. Thanks for writing this and addressing an often neglected aspect of fellowship.
Love the analogy drawn here. This was unique and a fun read. Good work.
02/25/08
I love this analogy. This is very good writing and I feel I've gotten to know you better through this piece. Keep on writing!
Laury