For authors, there’s a different sense of vulnerability than what there might be in other professions. As we write, we inject a certain amount of our own soul into our novels, prose, poetry, etc. We strive for transparency without being too forthright. We want to “connect,” not overwhelm.
Novelists must relate to readers in clear, concise ways which denote professionalism, not detachment. Obviously, we have to be creative when going about this. Since we each have our own style, what works for one person won’t work for another. We have to speak in our own voice, use our own words, and express ourselves just as we might in actual day-to-day scenarios. Our thoughts should flow as fluid on paper just as they would if we were sitting down to chat with a close friend.
When writing fiction, you might ask, how does this work? Don’t we allow the characters we create to speak or think in ways that we might not? To do things that are totally not us. To be individuals that are completely opposite of who we are? Of course we do. That’s why what we write is called fiction.
What I’m talking about is more the heart, soul, drive, and meat of our work. It goes back to voice and brand. It’s our own personal spark–our own little light that sets our writing apart from others in similar genres.
My own personal style, as you may have guessed, is pretty easy-going and relaxed. How I am here on my blog is similar to how I write. The stories I pen are heartfelt, homespun reflections of me. My characters may possess qualities that are uniquely their own, just as I do, but at the end of the day, bits and pieces of who they are and who I am somehow mesh in a fabulous meeting of the minds.
When I’m feeling particularly philosophical, I sometimes wonder if the ultimate Author of Life knew what He was unleashing in us odd ducks, otherwise known as “writers.” He must have. How else do we explain this desire to know more, do more, be more? To burn with an intensity so strong that it can’t be extinguished?
That’s just how it should be with our blood-bought salvation. We should choose to share the light, not because we write, but because the light enables us to do so.
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In what ways do you choose to share your light? What’s your ministry?
Comments 10
I consider my writing my ministry and hope my inspirational romances will touch readers lives and serve as examples of how a life can be changed for the better when the Lord is at the center.
Author
Keli, since your words are a reflection of who you are, I’ve no doubt that your writing will accomplish that. You’ve already touched ME more than you know.
Really, I think any area of our lives can be a ministry if we let God have
His way in us. Writing is a wonderful way to reach people’s hearts without
ever being able to meet them. Our words can reach out into cyberspace or
into homes and businesses on the printed page, touching lives we’ll never
know about.
My job as a R.N. is another area of ministry. Being there for people in
their most vulnerable moments in time is an honor. I have a responsibility
to advocate for my patients with compassion and professionalism.
Being a wife and mother is also a great calling and ministry. Loving my
family unconditionally and teaching my children the love of Christ by
example is an enormous responsibility.
You can extend the idea of ministry to almost anything, cleaning or
cooking for someone in need, doing yard work or gardening for an
elderly neighbor, or singing in the church choir. It comes down to
recognizing our talents and using them for God’s glory. 🙂
Author
Tanya, you summed it up beautifully! Your spirit shines.
I like that “little” light image you posted. That certainly can’t be hidden under a bushel…just like the light and warmth that emanate through your blog.
Author
Patti, you humble me. Do you know what a blessing you are, dear one?
Great reminder, Cynthia. Every time we go somewhere in our van, my son begs to listen to Veggie Tales songs. And what do you think is the first song on the CD? Yep, This Little Light of Mine. I don’t think I’ll listen to it the same now. 🙂
Author
Love the Veggie Tales, Sarah! (Does that CD have the “Hairbrush” song on it?)
And I do believe in letting our light shine! 🙂
Hi Cynthia,
Love this. I wrote a post along the same lines yesterday and posted today. Great minds?? 😉
Or rather, God-focused minds. 🙂 May we always be lit with His light so the world can see Him.
I consider my children and hubby my main ministry, with writing a close second. As I believe you’ve experienced, there is a waiting that comes along with this process. Family comes first as we learn to wait, trust and grow, then gain even more trust in Him as He launches us into the writing dream He’s placed in us. What a beautiful journey!
I love your writing style, and I so look forward to reading your book(s). Do you have general dates for publication?
Author
Yes, Kerry, I could write a book on the waiting process! (No pun intended.) And family is indeed a first priority and a ministry.
Thank you for your sweet words. No news yet…I’ll share as I’m able… 🙂