Is There a Writer in You?

 by Sally Matheny

English and Journalism degrees are not mandatory. A lifelong desire to author a book is not required. Burning the midnight oil is not obligatory. Then how do you know if there is a writer in you?

Do you enjoy encouraging, teaching, and guiding other people? Perhaps you have a knack for always cheering others up, even to the point of laughter in the midst of their tears.

Maybe there is something you are passionate about and want others to share your enthusiasm.

Have you overcome a difficult hurdle in life and want to help others who are experiencing something similar?

If there is something filling your heart so full, it’s bursting to get out, then you may want to consider writing.

Writing does not always have to be published in order to assist someone. A thoughtful letter, card, or email can be wonderful blessings. Even a journal passed down through the generations is treasured.

However, pray and ask God how He wants to use you and your writing. Perhaps it is time to consider writing for print and on-line publications.

Your words may bless one reader if you share it with a friend or family member. Yet, if you write for a magazine, your message may encourage thousands.

Wondering how to get started? There are how-to books you can check out at the library. However, one of the best ways is to attend a Writers’ Conference.

Start with a smaller conference to avoid feeling overwhelmed. The Write2Ignite Writers' Conference http://www.write2ignite.com is a wonderful place to begin your writing journey.

This conference specializes for Christians who write (or want to learn how to write) for children and young adults. The variety of workshops (on magazine writing, picture books, devotionals, illustrating, social media, and so much more!) is sure to help beginning writers as they navigate their way in the world of writing.

Another great thing about Write2Ignite is they also offer a track for teens.

Write2Ignite is held every March at North Greenville University in Travelers Rest, South Carolina.

 

Also, I recommend Writers Advance Boot Camp http://www.writersadvancebootcamp.com.

Writing for publications requires learning how to write for each one. It takes work and plenty of patience.

If you think God wants you to share your message by writing, you have to do your part. Learn everything you can about the craft of writing. Continually sharpen your skills in order to be a useful tool.

What story is whirling in your mind right now? What heart message is bursting to get out?

Think about it. Pray about it. Is there a writer in you?

 

*For more helpful information, check out the tab at the top for “Websites for Writers.”  

 

 

 

 

 

Make New Friends

  There's an old song about making new friends but keeping the old ones. One is silver and the other gold.

  2012 has been a year for making new friends. God has brought precious gems into my life this year and I'd love to introduce two of them to you.

  This lady is Venita McCart. We met at the Christian Writers Boot Camp held at the Cove in Asheville, N.C.
  Venita is a beautiful lady, inside and out. She is a cancer survivor. She's allowing God to work something good through the tough battles she has faced. Venita founded Faith Force Cancer Support Ministries. She helps others start faith-based cancer support groups. Encouraging cancer patients and their loved ones is her heart's desire. Her spoken and written words are inspiring. You can read some of her devotions at www.christiandevotions.us. She is an awesome lady!
 
  That smiling face to the right belongs to Samantha Bell. Samantha is one of those people who makes you feel like you've been friends for years even though you've just met! She has a servant's heart and her friendliness just bubbles right out onto everyone she meets.
  Samantha is a writer/illustrator I met at the Write2Ignite! Conference at North Greenville University in South Carolina. Under that purple shirt she is wearing is her Super Mama cape. Juggling her writing and illustrating, several blogs, church and family, she also homeschools! God gave Samantha an extra dose of creative energy when He made her.
  You can check out some of her creative ideas at www.art-made-easy.com No matter how old you are, you're sure to find some great ideas!

  My dear readers (and friends), I encourage you to make a new friend this week. Step out of your comfort zone and introduce yourself to someone. God places people in our daily paths all the time. Perhaps someone is the answer to your prayers...or perhaps God plans to use you as an answer to their prayers!
Either way, you'll be blessed. Now, be nice, and go make new friends.