Why Do I Keep Writing?

I began this blog a little over five years ago. My first post titled Why Do I Write. Click Here

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERANow, so many years later—although they seem to have flown by—I ask myself why do I keep writing?

In the face of rejections and in the crazy world of publishing right now, why do I keep writing? Why do I sit at the keyboard everyday pounding out words that I hope make sense and that I pray will one day reach readers and touch their hearts?

Because writing is part of who I am. It has been for fifteen years now and I will always be a writer. Not someone who has written, but someone who writes. I can no more deny being a writer than I can deny being a father.

Because words are important. Stories are important. Not just my words. If my writing and teaching and mentoring inspire and help someone write their words and share their stories, the world will be richer for it.The phrase Words Have Power  on a Blackboard

Because in fiction, I can explore issues and present life, present different ways of looking at the world’s problems through my characters’ experiences and choices. All choices have consequences and my stories can present those choices more vividly than if I tried to write them as nonfiction or preach them from a pulpit.

Because in my stories I can give readers a different perspective and give them hope by exploring the themes of restoration, reconciliation, and redemption. And, by telling stories, I can do it in a way that entertains and enlightens and encourages.1318147_sunset_[1]Because my words do touch people. Feedback from readers let me know something I wrote ministered to them, helped them deal with a problem, brought them closer to God.

Because, for me, writing is a calling and a ministry. I’m not a pastor. And I’m definitely not a counselor. But I am a teller of stories. It’s what I do. It’s who I am.

Why do you keep writing?

 

 

2 Responses to Why Do I Keep Writing?

  1. Diane Bohannan August 6, 2015 at 7:14 pm #

    I LOVE this! You are a writer! You do encourage others with your words! I’m so glad to call you a friend! And I am a writer! I think I need more exclamation points… This is an amazing post and so inspiring. Because as writers, we do sit alone and type and hope people will get what we’re saying. It’s a tough job, but we MUST do it. If we don’t, we’re not ourselves. Thanks for the great words! 🙂

  2. Henry August 6, 2015 at 8:01 pm #

    Thanks, Diane. I love how we encourage and inspire each other in our group.

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