Our Bling Thing: The Story

Photo Credit: wonderlane/Creative Commons

I’m a very visual person, but then again, I suppose a lot of creatives are.

I revel in the sights, sounds, and people around me. I want to experience life full-steam-ahead. I want to know what makes folks tick.

I’m passionate about Christ and I want to share Him through the stories I create.

I believe as Christian writers we’re called to bring the “bling” to an otherwise dark, hopeless, and hurting world.

That’s what I love about Christian fiction. We have the potential to change lives.

Not only do our words entertain, but they also challenge, inspire, and leave lifelong imprints in a way that many secular stories do not.

Why?

Because they are God-annointed and Holy Spirit-driven.

When we allow Christ to direct our thoughts, words, and paths, His message will shine despite our self-doubts and human frailties.

Relinquishing control isn’t confining; it’s freeing. Our words then become the stories He intended.

Years ago, when I thought about the town I wanted to write about, I envisioned something similar to the world I knew. (My childhood was a simpler time with less hustle and bustle than life in today’s fast lane.) I realized I would have to strike a balance between the gentle era of yesterday and the harsh truths of now.

Photo Credit: Svadilfari/Creative Commons

My idea was to create a Mayberry-like atmosphere while bringing my characters’ stories to the forefront–in blazing color.

I considered what I thought to be important as I crafted the fictional town of “Ruby” and the residents who lived there: faith, family, patriotism, and traditional values. And as much as I am a Pollyanna, I also knew that there had to be some kinks in the picture. Perfect people with perfect stories who lived in Perfectville would be boring.

I stirred the pot and added some trouble.

A pinch of this and a smattering of that added depth and realism. Equal doses of hurt and hardship earned resiliency. A smidge of bitterness and a dollop of pride gave God something to work with.

The first story in a potential series was born.

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I recently read The Reason by William Sirls. Hands down, it’s one of the best stories I’ve ever read, and it still gives me chills to think about it.

How soon does it become clear to you that a book has the “bling factor?”

What kinds of stories do you like to read?

Photo Credits: Creative Commons

Blessings Always,