Wednesday, April 04, 2012

Books & Writing -- A Privilege






I just finished transcribing hours of cassette tapes that were sent to me by a woman who lived an incredible life. Several years ago, when she first approached me about writing her life story I was too busy and didn't give her the time she deserved. However, she's tenacious and she didn't give up. Occasionally I'd get a call from her or a card. And then, one day when she approached me at a booksigning and told me some of her story, I finally listened. I now have the privilege of telling her story.

Sometimes in the midst of all the work, all the marketing and rejections, and even in the midst of success we forget that it is a privilege to be a writer.

Each writer has their own reason for writing. Me -- I love it, but more than that I believe it is what God asked me to do. He has a plan that is bigger than my own. I trust Him and so I write and do my best to glorify Him in the tales that I write.

I must also remember my readers and be grateful for them, for without them I wouldn't be writing for publication. There is an audience of readers who love my stories and some who hear the deep things of my heart while reading one of my books. I am thankful for you.

There is no getting around it--writing is hard work and sometimes it feels like torture. But it is so much more. It is discovery. It is wonder. It is joy. It is growth. And I am grateful for it all.

I'm working on my first true life story, and as I've listened to the cassette tapes that hold the story that will become my next book I am astounded at a little girl's unusual, often horrific and sometimes beautiful life. God's hand is and was upon her. And the girl she was and the woman she became inspires me. The hours I've spent with her have left me breathless at the great privilege I've been given.

As writers, we must remember our job is a gift. It's not always easy to hang on to that truth, especially when we're in the trenches and wondering why and how we got where we are. And when we wonder whatever induced us to think we could write. And why in heaven's name did we begin this writing journey at all . . it's just too hard.

Still, I ask you to remember the wonder of it. Savor every sweet moment. Be prepared for the unexpected. And know it is more than a job because it is . . . more.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

8 comments:

  1. I agree with savoring the moments.

    Nice post.

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  2. Wonderful post, Bonnie. I can feel your joy and excitement and how doing this blesses you - as well as the woman who didn't give up! I think stories based on real llife people and history are the most powerful of all. Can't wait to hear more! Praying for you as you write.

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  3. Loree, we've got to -- otherwise we may get sucked into that place where we lose sight of our mission and get focused on all the negatives. Every job has it's difficulties, but that doesn't mean we're not supposed to do it . . . and find the blessings in it. God doesn't waste anything.

    Bless you.

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  4. Laura, thank you for your encouraging words. And I can't wait to share this story with you.

    My favorite books and movies have always been true stories. I know this one is important and I feel a powerful need to write it well. I sooo appreciate your prayers.

    Grace and peace to you.

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  5. I'll bet your blessings will just keep on comin'==after book's in print, and when folks tell you, "Wow". And the other Bonnie will be blessed too, for God obviously brought her to you! A win win! One of these days I'll write my own life story... yup. One of these days...

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  6. Patti, don't wait too long to write that book. I want to read it.

    Hugs.

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  7. I sure needed this word today, Bonnie. It was one of those torturous writing weeks, ending in a flu bug for my household today.

    I'm so glad you are being blessed in this project. I remember you talking about it so many months ago. I think it was quite a long while back when you first mentioned it. So glad it's coming along well and captured your passion.

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  8. Lori, I'm so sorry to hear you're sick. And I can promise you more torturous writing days ahead -- a blessing! There will also be days of wonder and delight.

    Praying you and your family will be feeling strong and healthy soon.

    Love you, dear one.

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