We spend more and more time in front of our keyboards. We
work, play, connect, research, all with fingers poised, eyes strained, and
necks crooked. As writers, we’re isolated. Some of us are lucky to have agents
and publishers, maybe even nominations and awards. But for all others? What
keeps us going?
Obviously, the drive to create via the written word is a
powerful life force. Mere creation is a joy, but is there more?
We can sometimes take for granted our gift of being able to
string words together in a cohesive pattern.
The power of being a writer can be hidden in daily life.
You know by now that I’ve volunteered at a therapeutic riding stable
dedicated to helping people with special needs learn to ride. Clients have a
spectrum of issues from Down Syndrome to stroke injuries. Everyone is unique
with their skills and needs.
Five years ago, I was paired with a client and we quickly
became a team. Each lesson consisted of me leading her horse while she built
her independent skills. We talked about our lives outside of the stable and
laughed a lot.
One day, she presented me with a short story. The first she
had ever written.
I cherish the many stories she has given me – all the more
because she passed away suddenly in January.
Her sister asked me if I could help write the obituary and
read a post I wrote about our friendship at the service.
The stable has asked me to speak at their annual fundraising
gala because, well, they heard I could string together a few words pretty well.
So, write. Pour your heart into what you do and create.
Don’t worry about the success of others with stories published, books in print,
or awards won. Write what you love and conjure worlds. While you’re at it, kill
off a few people and talk about your favorite murder techniques–you know, just
to keep people around you on their best behavior.
But don’t stop writing. It might not look the same to all
writers, but somehow, your daily life will be empowered by the written word.
